The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has dismissed social media reports alleging that the newly commissioned electronic gates (e-Gates) at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) cost the nation $240 million.
In a press release dated December 19, 2024, GIS clarified that the e-Gates installed at KIA cost $1.7 million, not $240 million as falsely claimed.
The statement elaborated that, the e-Gates are part of a broader initiative known as the “Immigration 360,” an integrated border management system designed to automate passenger processing and data management at all of Ghana’s 48 approved entry and exit points.
“The Ghana Immigration Service is implementing a new integrated border management system, ‘Immigration 360,’ to address challenges of sovereignty, interoperability, and inefficiencies in the current systems deployed at 12 approved borders,” the statement outlined.
GIS emphasized that the $1.7 million cost covers 15 units of e-Gates with accessories installed at KIA, separate from the $240 million figure circulating online.
The $240 million refers to the total cost of implementing phases one and two of the Immigration 360 system across all 48 entry points, including installation, maintenance, licensing, and taxes.
“This amount reflects the entire project cycle cost, including an initial implementation expense of $94.6 million,” the release explained.
Further details revealed that the $240 million includes periodic system upgrades to ensure the infrastructure remains functional and up-to-date over a 10-year period. The upgrades consist of three replacement cycles for critical components and two major refresh cycles every five years.
“After factoring in VAT and other taxes, the total cost amounts to $274 million. This comprehensive figure includes maintenance and round-the-clock support services to guarantee seamless operation throughout the system’s lifespan,” GIS clarified.
Below is the full statement
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