What's Happening?
Ghana has temporarily suspended its program that allows Africans in the diaspora to attain Ghanaian citizenship. This initiative, which began in 2016, was primarily aimed at descendants of the transatlantic slave trade. The suspension is due to technical challenges and complaints about the application process, which includes high costs and complex requirements. Applicants must pay $136 to apply and an additional $2,280 if shortlisted. Despite these hurdles, over a thousand individuals, including notable figures like Stevie Wonder, have acquired citizenship through the program. Dr. Erieka Bennet, ambassador for the Diaspora African Forum, noted that the current system's requirement for DNA evidence within a week of application submission has been
a significant barrier. The program is being revised to address these issues.
Why It's Important?
The suspension of Ghana's diaspora citizenship program is significant as it affects the country's efforts to strengthen ties with the African diaspora. The program was part of a broader strategy to enhance human resources and tourism by encouraging people of African descent to return to their ancestral homeland. The challenges faced by the program highlight the complexities involved in such initiatives, including the need for efficient and accessible application processes. The suspension may also impact Ghana's international image and its ability to attract investment and tourism from the diaspora community.
What's Next?
Ghana is working on developing a more seamless system to address the current challenges faced by the diaspora citizenship program. This includes simplifying the application process and addressing concerns about the validity and feasibility of DNA testing requirements. The revised program aims to make it easier for individuals of African descent to obtain Ghanaian citizenship, thereby strengthening cultural and economic ties with the diaspora. As the program is restructured, it will be important for Ghana to communicate these changes effectively to potential applicants and stakeholders.
