The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has set an ambitious one-year target to transition all payment processes within the security services to digital platforms.
He said the move was aimed at eliminating corruption, ensuring transparency and blocking financial loopholes that enabled extortion, leakages and bribery.
Speaking during a working visit to the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) headquarters yesterday, the minister said he would lead the initiative to roll all transactions on to an electronic platform.
“I can assure you that in the next one year, no service within the ministry will be collected in cash. Every service will be electronic, and all tracking will also be digitised. This will help block loopholes that allow for extortion, leakages and bribery,” he stated.
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PPPs
Mr Mohammed-Mubarak also announced plans to integrate public-private partnerships (PPPs) into the ministry’s operations to enhance efficiency and improve service delivery.
Given the government’s financial constraints, he stressed the need to collaborate with both profit and non-profit private entities while ensuring that such partnerships did not compromise national security.
“You will be seeing a lot more PPPs within the ministry, where it is necessary, ensuring that these partnerships do not interfere with our internal security but rather help improve services and generate revenue for both the agencies and the state,” he said.
The Interior Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of security personnel, assuring officers that their safety and motivation remained a priority.
“We will have your back. We will do everything to make each and every one of you feel safe within the service. Our only expectation is that you will also give your very best to our country and to the service,” he added.
Retooling
Mr Mohammed-Mubarak acknowledged the crucial role of GIS personnel in national security, and assured the officers that retooling the service would be a priority under the new administration.
He indicated that morale within the security services was not solely about financial incentives but also about providing the right tools, promotions and favourable working conditions.
“We know that issues of promotion, transfers, accommodation and other welfare concerns are serious matters for you.
As His Excellency John Dramani Mahama’s representative, I assure you that we will work hard to retool your outfit and ensure you are well-prepared to keep our borders safe, so Ghanaians can feel secure,” he added.
The minister commended the Comptroller-General and his team, particularly those in intelligence operations, for their dedication to safeguarding the country’s borders despite existing challenges.
“We know the challenges are enormous, but that is why we are here. We are capable of turning things around to make the service more attractive, strengthen border security and ensure Ghana is safer,” he said.
Challenges
The Comptroller-General of the GIS, Kwame Asuah Takyi, expressed gratitude for the minister’s visit, noting that it signalled a strong commitment to enhancing collaboration between the ministry and GIS.
Over the years, he said, the service had made significant strides in infrastructure, personnel development and operational efficiency.
In spite of those achievements, Mr Takyi said the GIS continued to face operational challenges that hindered its efficiency.
He said issues related to logistics, surveillance technology, personnel welfare, promotions and transfers remained key concerns and stressed the need for continued government support, particularly in improving the welfare of officers.
