Tanzania's President John Magufuli. FILE PHOTO | NMG
Tanzania on Wednesday launched a new electronic passport.
The
smart travel document, among other things, will enhance national
security, control illegal migrants and play a key role in revenue
collection.
President John Magufuli said the new development is part of efforts to improve productivity and simplify service delivery.
He
also directed the immigration officers to come up with strategies that
deliver results in the control against illegal immigrants, and that
hence forth disciplinary measures would be taken against regional
immigration officers who fail in their duties.
The e-passport will be available at a cost of Sh150,000 (Sh6,700) and will be valid for 10 years.
"I'm pleased with the changes. This is a job well done by the Immigration Department. You have my support,” said Dr Magufuli.
First phase
The
project was implemented in collaboration of the government of Ireland
and the service provider the US based, HID Company at a cost of $57.82
million.
"The implementation started in September
2017, with a view to have the first phase accomplished in January 2018,"
said the Commissioner General of Immigration (CGI) Dr Anna Makalala in
her welcoming note.
The old passports will be in use until January, 2020, she said.
She said all applicants wishing to acquire the new e-travelling document must have a national identity.
This, according to Dr Makakala, will help to enhance efficiency on issuance of traveling documents.
Speaking
at the event, the minister for Home Affairs, Dr Mwigulu Nchemba,
said his office was determined to improve services by the Immigration
department, since it has a crucial role in maintaining peace and
security of the country.
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