In brief
Ghana has announced a suspension of citizenship applications aimed at individuals of African descent, instituted to simplify the process. Since 2016, over 1,000 people have successfully obtained citizenship under the program, which primarily benefits descendants of those affected by the transatlantic slave trade. Criticism has been directed toward the complicated application process and high fees, prompting calls for reform. Officials express confidence that issues will be resolved, though uncertainty remains for prospective applicants.
Ghana has paused citizenship applications for members of the African diaspora in order to make the system more accessible and user friendly. Since 2016, those who can prove their ancestors came from Africa have been able to get Ghanaian nationality. It was primarily aimed at the descendants of those who were victims of the transatlantic slave trade.
More than 1,000 people - including African American singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder - have obtained Ghanaian citizenship in recent years. However, some applicants have complained about the number of stages involved, as well as the high cost.
Dr. Erieka Bennet, ambassador for the Diaspora African Forum, indicated that many applicants struggled with the requirement to submit DNA evidence within a week of the application, labeling the timeframe as 'impossible' for most. Additionally, the application fee is $136 (£100), while shortlisted candidates are required to pay a further $2,280 (£1,700).
Once vetted, candidates attend a one-day citizenship orientation before receiving their nationality in a ceremony supervised by President John Mahama. Bennet expressed optimism regarding resolving the issues facing the application process and indicated that updated timelines and guidelines from the government will come in due course.
Uncertainty surrounding the suspension has caused anxiety for potential applicants planning their relocation or investments. This initiative reflects Ghana's post-independence Pan-African vision, aimed at fostering connections with Africans worldwide, especially highlighted during the 'Year of Return' in 2019.
Today, many members of the diaspora invest in various sectors in Ghana, seeking citizenship to secure property ownership and voting rights. Countries like Benin and Sierra Leone also offer citizenship based on verified ancestral connections.
