Why Did Ghana Suspend Citizenship for People of African Descent?

The Ghanaian government has temporarily suspended citizenship applications for members of the African diaspora to enhance the accessibility and efficiency of the process. Since 2016, individuals who can prove their African ancestry have been eligible for Ghanaian nationality, particularly aimed at descendants of those affected by the transatlantic slave trade. However, issues such as complex application stages and high costs have led to this pause in applications.

Last updated: 30 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As of October 2023, the Ghanaian government has announced a pause on all citizenship applications from members of the African diaspora. This decision aims to address various complaints regarding the application process, including the burdensome demands for documentation and the associated costs. While no specific date has been given for the resumption of applications, the government has indicated that updated guidelines will be provided in the near future.

Key takeaways

• The Ghanaian government has paused citizenship applications for the African diaspora.
• More than 1,000 individuals have obtained citizenship since 2016.
• Applicants have raised concerns about the complexity and cost of the application process.

Timeline: how we got here

The path to the current suspension of citizenship applications includes several significant milestones:

• 2016: Ghana introduces a citizenship pathway for individuals with verified African ancestry, primarily aimed at descendants of the transatlantic slave trade.
• 2019: The initiative is revitalised as part of the "Year of Return," which encourages members of the African diaspora to reconnect with their roots in Ghana.
• October 2023: The Ghanaian government suspends citizenship applications due to complaints about the process and costs.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The recent suspension of citizenship applications has been officially announced, with the Ghanaian government pledging to revisit the application process to make it more user-friendly. Detailed timelines and new guidelines will be released but remain unspecified at this time.

What was already established

Since 2016, Ghana has facilitated citizenship for individuals proving African ancestry, with more than 1,000 applicants, including notable figures like Stevie Wonder, successfully obtaining nationality. However, the process has faced criticism for its complexity and high fees.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The suspension may affect UK citizens of African descent who were considering relocating to Ghana. Many individuals seek citizenship for rights such as property ownership and access to public services, which could be impacted by this halt.

Businesses and jobs

Potential investors from the UK may also feel the effects, as the uncertainty surrounding citizenship could hinder plans for investment in sectors like real estate, agriculture, and technology. Ghana has been an attractive destination for diasporic investment, and delays could dampen interest.

Policy and regulation

The Ghanaian government is expected to provide updates regarding the citizenship application process, which may include changes to its policy framework. The outcome of this review could significantly affect future applications and the experience of potential citizens.

Numbers that matter

• 1,000+ individuals have obtained Ghanaian citizenship since 2016.
• Application fee: $136 (£100); shortlisted candidates pay an additional $2,280 (£1,700).
• One-week deadline for submitting additional documentation, deemed "impossible" by many applicants.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Pan-African Vision: A movement aimed at unifying African nations and peoples worldwide, often promoting cultural and economic ties.
• Year of Return: A campaign launched by Ghana in 2019 to encourage the African diaspora to visit and invest in Ghana.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Potential applicants should stay informed about announcements from the Ghanaian government regarding the resumption of citizenship applications and new guidelines. Monitoring news sources and official statements will be crucial during this period.

Medium term (1–6 months)

In the coming months, the government may introduce reforms to simplify the application process. Individuals planning to relocate should consider alternative options or destinations until clarity is provided.

Signals to watch

• Official announcements from the Ghanaian government regarding the citizenship application process.
• Changes in application fees or requirements.
• Updates on the outcomes of any reviews or consultations regarding the citizenship framework.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay updated on official communications regarding the citizenship application process.
• Consider gathering necessary documentation in advance to expedite the application once it resumes.

Don’t

• Do not rush to submit applications without clarity on the new guidelines.
• Don’t overlook other potential countries that offer citizenship based on ancestry.

Checklist

• Confirm your eligibility for Ghanaian citizenship based on ancestry.
• Review the current application requirements and fees.
• Prepare necessary documents, including proof of ancestry.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

There are several uncertainties regarding the future of the citizenship application process in Ghana. Potential applicants must be aware that the government has not provided a specific timeline for when applications will resume. Additionally, the proposed reforms may or may not address the existing concerns about costs and documentation requirements.

Bottom line

The suspension of citizenship applications for the African diaspora reflects the Ghanaian government's recognition of the need for reform in the application process. As applicants await further details, it remains essential for those interested in obtaining Ghanaian nationality to remain informed and prepared for the changes ahead.

FAQs

Why has Ghana paused citizenship applications?

The Ghanaian government has paused citizenship applications to address complaints regarding the complexity of the process and associated costs, intending to make it more accessible for applicants.

What are the costs associated with obtaining Ghanaian citizenship?

The initial application fee is $136 (£100), with shortlisted candidates required to pay an additional $2,280 (£1,700) for the final stages of the process.

How can I prove my ancestry for citizenship in Ghana?

Applicants need to provide documentation proving their African ancestry, which may include family records or other verified evidence as part of their citizenship application.