Dancehall Star Praises Mahama Government’s Move
Ghanaian reggae-dancehall artist Charles Nii Armah Mensah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, has lauded the John Mahama-led NDC government for reducing passport application fees. The musician described the move as a demonstration of good governance, suggesting that Ghanaians had been overcharged in the past. In a social media post on March 13, 2025, he expressed his gratitude, calling it a positive change for the country.
Shatta Wale’s reaction followed an announcement by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa in Parliament. Ablakwa revealed that the fee for an ordinary passport booklet would be reduced from GHS500 to GHS350. He explained that the Ministry is working to amend the Fees and Charges Act to implement this reduction, which has been widely welcomed by the public.
The Minister also shared plans to transition from the current biometric passport system to a more advanced chip-embedded passport system. This upgrade will include door-to-door delivery services, aiming to enhance convenience and efficiency for applicants. The announcement reflects the government’s commitment to modernizing public services.
Under the previous administration, passport fees had been increased, with the new charges taking effect on April 1, 2024. At the time, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs justified the hike as being in line with the 2023 Fees and Charges Regulations, L.I. 2481. However, the recent reduction has been seen as a relief for many Ghanaians.
Shatta Wale’s endorsement of the fee reduction highlights the broader public appreciation for the initiative.
Source: ModernGhana