Renowned journalist Umaru Fofanah has provided clarity on the recent press release issued by the Sierra Leone Immigration Department, following widespread concerns about a potential increase in the cost of passports.

Fofanah disclosed that after receiving numerous calls from the public regarding the announcement, he reached out to the Chief Immigration Officer, Alusine Kanneh, for clarification. Kanneh assured him that the cost of passports would remain unchanged.

“There will be NO increase in the cost of passports,” Kanneh emphasized. However, he explained that starting January 1, 2025, the increase would apply solely to the application forms required for all categories of passports.

The clarification is expected to ease public anxiety and misinformation regarding the matter.

The Immigration Department has yet to specify the new cost for application forms, but officials assure that the process for acquiring passports will remain accessible.