Ghana has temporarily suspended citizenship applications for people of African descent as authorities work to revamp a process widely criticized as costly, complex, and difficult to navigate.
Since 2016, individuals who can prove ancestral ties to Africa have been eligible to apply for Ghanaian nationality—a programme largely aimed at descendants of the transatlantic slave trade.
More than 1,000 people have successfully obtained citizenship under the scheme, including African American singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder.
However, applicants have raised concerns over the process. Dr. Erieka Bennet, ambassador for the Diaspora African Forum, which supports relocation to Ghana, highlighted that many applicants struggle to meet documentation requirements, particularly the DNA submission, which must currently be completed within a week of applying.
She described the timeline as “impossible” for most, and noted that some applicants have questioned the reliability of DNA testing.
Additional documentation deadlines also present challenges, with applicants required to submit supporting materials within seven days—a timeframe Dr. Bennet said is difficult to meet.
Cost has been another major issue. Applicants pay an initial fee of $136 (£100), while those shortlisted must pay an additional $2,280 (£1,700).
Successful candidates then undergo vetting, attend a one-day citizenship orientation, and finally receive their nationality at a ceremony overseen by President John Mahama.
Ghanaian authorities said the suspension aims to simplify and make the process more accessible before applications resume, ensuring that future applicants can navigate it more smoothly and efficiently.
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