Ethiopia has launched a new biometric passport to enhance travel security and streamline immigration processes. The initiative, involving Toppan Security, aims to modernize the country’s ID documentation with features including embedded biometrics. A nationwide rollout is set to begin soon, along with new digital immigration services.
Ethiopia has officially launched a new biometric passport, enhancing secure travel documentation. The unveiling occurred on February 21, led by Toppan Security Ethiopia, which is responsible for producing this advanced ID document. The initiative is a collaboration between Ethiopia’s Immigration and Citizen Services (ICS), Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH), and Toppan Security designed to modernize immigration processes and bolster national security.
The launch ceremony included senior government officials and leaders, among them, President Taye Atske Selassie, who received the first passport copies. The public rollout is expected shortly, preceded by a nation-wide campaign by ICS to facilitate awareness and ease the passport application and issuance processes.
The new passport, produced locally at a $55 million industrial printing facility, anticipates a distribution of around 1.5 million booklets by October. It features an embedded chip containing biometric data—face, fingerprint, or iris information—for efficient verification, in addition to showcasing Ethiopia’s cultural heritage.
ICS CEO Selamawit Dawit hailed the passport as transformative, stating: “With improved security, faster processing, and internationally recognized standards, this passport will significantly enhance the travel experience for Ethiopians while strengthening our global recognition and border control.” This new offering emphasizes Ethiopia’s strategic investment in enhancing security and operational efficiency.
Dr. Brook Taye, CEO of EIH, remarked on the launch as a leap forward in secure document production, asserting it establishes Ethiopia’s leadership in this domain. He emphasized the partnership with Toppan Security and ICS as critical for addressing security printing needs while advancing modernization.
Kalkidan Arega, CEO of Toppan Security Ethiopia, noted the project’s significance in technological advancement for travel documentation. He stated: “This project demonstrates how technology and expertise can come together to enhance security and efficiency in public services.”
The launch coincides with ICS’s broader aims to implement digital immigration services, including a digital visa system and enhanced security measures against fraud and identity theft. From February 24, ICS will initiate the issuance of visa, ID, and permit services alongside upgraded registration and issuance systems.
Ethiopia’s launch of the biometric passport signifies a major stride towards modernizing immigration and enhancing traveler security. Through collaborations with Toppan Security and local investments, the project aims not only to streamline passport issuance but also to implement innovative digital immigration services. This initiative positions Ethiopia as a leader in secure documentation, promising improved travel experiences for its citizens.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
