GOVERNMENT has rolled out E-passport services to more districts across the country as part of its ongoing efforts to decentralize key public services, promote inclusive development, and improve access to identity documents for all citizens.
The initiative, launched under the Second Republic and currently being expanded through the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, is transforming local registry operations by enabling people to apply for digital passports closer to their homes, thereby cutting costs and reducing travel time.
This came to light during a tour of the recently refurbished Chipinge Registry Office on Thursday by the Special Advisor to the President on Monitoring Implementation of Government Programmes and Projects, Dr Joram Gumbo, who said the development reflects the administration’s commitment to equitable service delivery.
“People coming from as far as Chiredzi, Chivi, and Bikita are being assisted here. It is pleasing to note that this registry office has been renovated and is now able to serve a wide catchment area. However, there are still issues to address, such as the construction of ablution facilities and a banking hall, given the high volume of clients,” Dr Gumbo said.
Residents of Chipinge District and neighbouring areas have welcomed the development, saying the local availability of E-passport services has brought convenience and reduced expenses once associated with travelling to Mutare or Harare.
“I am from Bikita, and I have come to Chipinge to apply for a passport. It would be amazing to have a passport office in Bikita as well, just like what we have seen here. The service here is good,” a Bikita resident said.
“We thank the Government for bringing passport offices to Chipinge. It has reduced travel costs and waiting times,” said one resident.
“We are now able to apply for passports locally. However, we appeal for improved network connectivity and the installation of ablution facilities to accommodate large crowds,” added another.
Others expressed optimism following plans to establish a CBZ Bank unit within the registry office to allow clients to make payments on site.
“We are happy that there will be a CBZ office here for people to pay their passport fees rather than going to the CBD area to make payments,” another beneficiary said.
Manicaland ZANU PF Women’s League Chairperson, Cde Dorothy Mabika, commended the Second Republic for its people-centred approach to governance.
“I want to thank the Commander of Economic Development, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, for bringing E-passport offices and a new registry in Chipinge. This is the only district in Manicaland issuing E-passports
