Gemalto, in cooperation with SCINTL—have received the contract to supply Border Management Systems (BMS) including airport self-service eKiosks at Entebbe International Airport—to create a faster and more convenient border-crossing experience for travelers as well as strengthening homeland security.
The said e-Immigration solution uses Gemalto’s state-of-the-art fingerprint and facial recognition technology, combined with a passport scan to ensure swift and accurate identification of passengers leaving the country. It’s built on the Gemalto Visa Management System (VMS) that was first deployed in 2014 by the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC).
Thierry Mesnard, VP Sales Africa for Gemalto in a press statement said, quote, “With the introduction of advanced automated kiosks at Entebbe Airport, the Ugandan authorities are once again demonstrating their commitment to addressing challenges—like; terrorism, illegal immigration, and organized crime.”
The new eKiosks will further boost its capacity to handle the growing number of business and leisure visitors coming to Uganda. Once implementation of the e-Immigration solution is complete later this year, passengers will enjoy the option of a rapid, self-guided pathway through border control, whilst authorities are provided with comprehensive, real-time data on departures from Uganda.
Gemalto’s VMS combines applications, processing and issuance for all pre-paid visas and permits, and incorporates a secure and convenient online portal, and biometric enrollment facilities in foreign missions and on arrival in the country.[related-posts]
General Jeje A. Odongo, Minister of Internal Affairs, said the new Automated Border Control solution marks the latest step forward in the modernization, enhancement of security of border control management in Uganda, delivering important benefits for visitors and citizens alike.
Cephas T. Bushuyu, Managing Director for SCINTL, pointed out that, the company will provide vital local support and know-how for a solution that encompasses supply, installation and maintenance.
“Overseas visitors are playing a key role in Uganda’s economic development, and many will now enjoy the option of a safe, fast-track border crossing experience,” said Cephas.
