Production Starts for Cameroon’s New Generation of Biometric Passports

Munich, Yaoundé July 1, 2021 – Today the Republic of Cameroon’s General Delegation for National Security (GDSN) and AUGENTIC unveiled the country’s new generation of biometric passports infrastructure.

The modernized system, which was implemented in record time is setting ground for a reliable and state-of-the art passport system. Moving forward, the modernized passport system will provide significant benefits for both Cameroon’s citizens and government.

As part of the project’s Build phase, a new national passport production center with more than 3,000 square meters is operating as of today in Yaoundé. AUGENTIC is also responsible for the construction of an 800 plus square meter building in Douala and a 600 plus square meter building in Garoua. In addition, enrollment infrastructure in all offices and diplomatic missions was upgraded and equipped by the latest technologies.

In the new issuance process, Cameroonian citizens are able to pre-enroll for a new passport online through the PassCam Portal provided by AUGENTIC PassCam and INCM. The enrollment process will then be completed at the selected enrollment center with an in-person appointment, where biometric data including facial scans, fingerprints, and digital signatures will be collected. Within 48 hours after completing successfully the enrolment process, passport will be produced. The new application process has a queue-management system, providing citizens with reduced waiting times and an easy-to-use online portal.

To facilitate the passport issuance process, a state-of-the-art IT infrastructure was set-up and an online cashless payment system for passport fees was implemented. The cashless system benefits both citizens and the government, as it creates transparency and financial inclusion.

The new national passport production center is equipped to serve all the needs for Cameroon citizens in the next ten years with a guaranteed permanent stock of blank passports. The modernized biometric passports offer the highest level of security and provide Cameroonians with increased freedom to travel exceeding the requirements set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The passport launch is part of a 10-year Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) contract between Cameroon’s GDSN and AUGENTIC, a recognized leader in digital identity solutions with Imprensa Nacional-Casa da Moeda (INCM), the State Printer of Portugal as partner.

“Today marks a significant step forward in the modernization of Cameroon’s passport system,” said AUGENTIC’S CEO Mr. Labinot Carreti. “The project scope and depth was a challenge in and of itself especially due to global pandemic situation and supply chain difficulties. I am happy that thanks to the commitment of the dedicated teams and our strong partnership with INCM the start of operation phase  was made possible today.”