Basintale led Ghana Immigration Service records major gains in revenue and border control
In a press release dated March 23, 2026, the Service reveled that the gains follow reforms in visa and permit processing systems, driven by investments in digital infrastructure and automation.
The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) says it has recorded an increase in revenue generation and operational efficiency, recording more than GH¢546 million over the past year under the leadership of its Comptroller-General, Samuel Amadu Basintale.
In a press release dated March 23, 2026, the Service reveled that the gains follow reforms in visa and permit processing systems, driven by investments in digital infrastructure and automation.
“Over the past year, GIS generated more than GH¢546 million in revenue, largely driven by reforms in visa and permit processing. A total of 186,959 permits and visas were issued representing a 32.5 per cent increase over the previous year.” The statement read.
Basintale’s appointment in March 2025 by President John Dramani Mahama marked what the Service describes as a renewed national drive toward stronger border security, operational efficiency, and institutional reform.
The statement signed by Deputy Commissioner of Immigration Maud Anima Quainoo also reported the GIS managed over 2.8 million passenger movements across Ghana’s air, land, and sea entry points without major incident, which has resulted in supporting key national initiatives such as the 2025 December in Ghana tourism campaign, which recorded increased international arrivals.
The Service highlighted a series of enforcement successes achieved through coordinated operations involving its National Operations Department, Border Management Department, and Regional Commands. These efforts led to significant seizures of smuggled goods, narcotics, ammunition, and other contraband.
“Significant interceptions, include; 1,401 bags/jerrycans of smuggled cocoa beans, 1,398 packs of Tramadol and 88 parcels of suspected Indian hemp, 725 cartridges of ammunition, 22 post-paid meters, 119 of smuggled fuel and 61 jerrycans of These operations reflect growing effectiveness in disrupting illicit trade networks.”
“In addition, 909 individuals, both Ghanaians and foreign nationals were intercepted at entry points and checkpoints. A broader enforcement exercise involving 7,204 facility inspections led to the arrest of 3,533 individuals for immigration-related offences.” The statement added.
The Service highlighted achievements in intelligence gathering, legal enforcement, fraud detection, capacity building, infrastructure expansion, decentralization, and international collaboration.
The statement added that the Basintale has consistently emphasized staff welfare as a critical pillar of operational effectiveness, combining strategic vision with disciplined execution.
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