Harare, Zimbabwe – In a significant move to improve access to critical services for its diaspora, the Zimbabwean government is set to open e-passport centres in the United Kingdom, United States, and Zambia in 2025. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize and decentralize passport services for Zimbabweans both at home and abroad.
New Centres in London, New York, and Lusaka
Registrar-General Henry Machiri announced that the new centres will be established in London, New York, and Lusaka, with renovations expected to begin in January 2025. This expansion comes after the successful launch of Zimbabwe’s first international e-passport centre at its consulate in Johannesburg, South Africa, earlier this year.
“This is a key step in ensuring that Zimbabwean citizens living abroad can access passport services without unnecessary hardship,” Machiri said.
Improving Domestic Access
The government is also focused on improving e-passport services domestically. A new e-passport centre is scheduled to open in Mutare during the first quarter of 2025. This will add to the existing 14 centres across the country, located in cities such as Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru, Lupane, and Beitbridge.
E-Passport Adoption on the Rise
Since the introduction of e-passports in January 2022, over 100,000 travel documents have been issued, reflecting the success of this digital transformation. The addition of international centres is expected to further streamline the process, enabling Zimbabweans in the diaspora to renew or apply for passports more conveniently.
Budget Support for Global Expansion
The 2025 National Budget, presented by Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube, allocated funds for the renovation of major diplomatic chanceries, including those in London, Germany, and Nigeria. These renovations aim to support the establishment of the e-passport centres and enhance the overall service experience for citizens abroad.
A Step Towards Better Service Delivery
The establishment of these new e-passport centres underscores the government’s commitment to improving service delivery and enhancing accessibility for Zimbabwean citizens worldwide. The initiative is also aligned with Zimbabwe’s efforts to modernize its consular services, making them more efficient and responsive to the needs of its growing diaspora.
What This Means for the Diaspora
Zimbabweans living in the UK, US, and Zambia will no longer have to travel back to Zimbabwe or neighboring countries to access passport services. The centres will provide a much-needed convenience, saving time and money for Zimbabweans abroad.
