Ghana has sworn in a new cohort of citizens from the African diaspora in a ceremony held Monday in Accra, as the country continues to position itself as a leading destination for descendants of the trans-Atlantic slave trade seeking to reclaim their heritage.
“Reconnecting Africa and her diaspora heals historical wounds and unleashes new possibilities for global cooperation, cultural renewal, and economic transformation,” said Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang in remarks to the newly sworn-in citizens.
Since formally recognizing the historical diaspora a decade ago, Ghana has naturalized 1,000 people. For many, the occasion carries profound personal significance. “I feel elated,” said new citizen Chauncia Willis Johnson. “I’m excited for what we will pour into Ghana – and what we will learn from Ghanaians.”
Last month, Ghana temporarily suspended new citizenship applications to streamline the process. Authorities have not announced when applications will reopen.
