Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa late Tuesday launched the country’s e-passport aimed at enhancing security by preventing identity theft and forgery.
“The move is in line with the government’s vision of a modernized economy through the application of advanced information and communication technology systems,’’ Mnangagwa said.
He made the remarks at the launching ceremony, which coincided with the commissioning of a new passport enrolment center in Harare.
Key features of the new e-passport include an electronic cover with a chip and a security thread fully embedded in the inner booklet pages, among others.
“These enhanced security features will go a long way in fighting cross-border organized crime and illegal migration, thereby fostering the integrity of our immigration system,’’ Mnangagwa said.
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He added that an online application system will be introduced to allow people to apply and pay for traveling documents remotely, with a physical appearance at the registry only for biometrics.
The normal processing of a new e-passport will cost $100 while the urgent processing of an emergency passport will cost $200.
All valid current passports will remain in use until they stop being acceptable internationally by Dec. 31, 2023. (Xinhua/NAN)
