The European Union has donated one pickup vehicle, motorbikes and other office equipment to the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS).
The equipment includes 10 motorbikes, 3 laptops and 2 desktops, with additional items such as a pickup vehicle, document fraud detection tools and ICT devices expected to be delivered later.
The acquisition of the equipment was made possible through the efforts of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) to support the administrative and operational needs of the Service.
The project, implemented by the International Center for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) and funded by the European Union (EU) Trust Fund for Africa, commenced in 2020 and officially concluded last week.
During a ceremony to hand over the equipment, the Comptroller-General of GIS, Mr. Kwame Esuah Takyi Esq. expressed gratitude to the EU and ICMPD for their continued support.
The Comptroller-General assured stakeholders of the agency’s commitment to utilising the equipment effectively. “This equipment being handed over to us today shall be put to good use, as we have always done,” he stated.
Beyond the provision of equipment, the EU’s support, he said, reflects a broader commitment to strengthening institutional capacity, promoting knowledge exchange and adopting best practices in migration governance.
The Comptroller-General reiterated GIS’s dedication to fostering a safe, orderly and humane migration system, underscoring the importance of continued collaboration with the EU and ICMPD.
The Project Manager of ICMPD, Madam Obiokoye-Nwalor, speaking during the ceremony highlighted the significance of the Strengthening Border Security in Ghana (SBS) project, funded by the European Union (EU) Trust Fund.
“Forensic magnifiers and document verification equipment are being provided to enhance GIS’s capacity in detecting document fraud. This is critical because many decisions depend on verifying travel documentation and matching it to the individuals presenting them.
“The choice of motorbikes reflects the reality on the ground, as they are better suited for some terrains than cars.
“These motorbikes will complement previously donated vehicles, ensuring GIS officers can respond swiftly to operational demands,” she explained.
She concluded by expressing hope that the equipment would be used effectively and maintained to ensure long-term benefits.
The SBS project is a vital part of ongoing efforts by ICMPD and the EU to build the capacity of the GIS and support the effective management of Ghana’s borders.
