By Hannah Dadzie
President John Dramani Mahama has announced a major overhaul of airport security screening procedures aimed at improving passenger convenience while strengthening border security.
Speaking at the launch of Ghana’s new e-Visa system, the President revealed that new advanced 3D scanning technology is being installed at major terminals to eliminate long-standing inconveniences faced by travellers during security checks.
According to him, the new system will remove the requirement for passengers to take out laptops and liquids from their hand luggage during screening — a measure expected to significantly reduce delays and ease congestion at the airport.
“New 3D scanners are being installed in both Terminal 3 and Terminal 2. These scanners will eliminate the need to remove laptops and liquids from your baggage when you travel,” the President said.
He further disclosed that additional equipment will be deployed from August to further improve the passenger experience, including the removal of the requirement for travellers to take off their shoes and belts during screening.
“In August, we are receiving and installing new equipment that will spare travellers the inconvenience of having to remove their shoes and their belts,” President Mahama added.
The reforms form part of a broader modernisation agenda integrating aviation security systems with Ghana’s Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) frameworks. The goal, the President said, is to enhance intelligence-led screening while ensuring smoother passenger movement through airports.
He emphasised that the changes do not weaken security but rather strengthen it through technology-driven checks and real-time data analysis linked to international watchlists.
The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and the Ghana Immigration Service are expected to oversee the implementation of the new screening regime in collaboration with other security agencies.
The President stressed that Ghana remains committed to balancing openness to international travellers with strict national security protocols, noting that modern systems will ensure both efficiency and safety at all entry points.
