Ghana News
Diasporans Petition Ghana’s President Over ‘Unpredictable, Costly, and Exclusionary’ Citizenship Process
A coalition of diaspora organizations has submitted a sweeping petition calling for urgent reform of Ghana’s citizenship pathway, including the suspension of a newly imposed GH¢25,000 fee and the creation of permanent diaspora representation.
A coalition of Historic Diaspora organizations has submitted a formal petition to His Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana, demanding urgent and comprehensive reform of the country’s citizenship framework for descendants of Africans displaced through the transatlantic slave trade.
The petition, published on Change.Org and addressed to President John Dramani Mahama, alleges that Ghana’s current citizenship processes have been “unpredictable, costly, poorly communicated, and lacking in meaningful representation,” contradicting the nation’s stated commitment to Pan-African leadership and reparative justice.
“We, the undersigned Historic Diasporans, Ghanaians, residents, descendants of those displaced through enslavement, and supporters of reparative justice, respectfully submit this petition to call for urgent reform,” the document states.
A Problematic 2026 Citizenship Process
The petition, supported by organizations including The Black Agenda, the African American Association of Ghana, the Ghana Caribbean Association, the Rastafari Council of Ghana, and the Marcus Mosiah Garvey Foundation, points to the 2026 citizenship process as a flashpoint for deeper structural failures.
Concerns raised include:
- A newly imposed non-refundable GH¢25,000 citizenship application fee per person — where initially there was no fee at all
- Late communication, with some applicants reportedly receiving as little as two days’ notice
- Background-check requirements that many experienced as “blunt instruments of exclusion”
- DNA and other evidentiary hurdles in a process that should be grounded in reparative justice
- Families being affected, with some unable to proceed together
Although between 2,000 and 3,000 people expressed interest in the process, only approximately 150 completed it successfully, a figure the petitioners argue demonstrates that “the system as presently structured excludes many of the very people Ghana claims to welcome.”
Eighteen Specific Demands for Reform
The petition outlines eighteen specific demands, including:
1. Create a Historic Diaspora Citizenship and Inclusion Advisory Council with real seats at the table, where Historic Diaspora representatives are selected or elected by their own communities rather than appointed externally.
2. Establish permanent Historic Diaspora representation within government structures, with accountable, constituency-mandated representatives selected by Historic Diasporans themselves.
3. Include qualified Historic Diasporans within Diaspora Affairs and other relevant state institutions.
4. Suspend the GH¢25,000 citizenship fee immediately, pending review, and replace it with “a fair, accessible, and restorative framework.”
5. Create a family-inclusive pathway allowing spouses, children, and households to proceed together without division through cost or procedural design.
6. Integrate the history of enslavement and the Historic Diaspora into the Ghana Education Service curriculum.
7. Establish a permanent, published, year-round citizenship pathway rather than relying on “surprise announcements, ceremonial deadlines, or narrow event-driven windows.”
8. Require a mandatory minimum notice period of 90 days for any major changes in fees, requirements, or deadlines.
9. Permanently remove DNA as a blanket or default requirement, accepting alternative forms of evidence including historical, genealogical, documentary, communal, cultural, and testimonial evidence.
10. Reform police-clearance and criminal-record requirements to be individualized, transparent, and proportionate rather than blanket exclusions.
11. Establish a coordinated support framework where repatriation services take operational lead, with government providing recognition, policy backing, and institutional coordination.
12. Publish a clear appeals and review process with written reasons for denials and a fair mechanism for reconsideration.
13. Ensure multilingual and inclusive access for the full Historic Diaspora, including Latin America, the Caribbean, Francophone, and Lusophone communities.
14. Develop verified systems and safeguards for diaspora investment, relocation, and settlement, leaning on Historic Diasporan experts.
15. Encourage Historic Diaspora participation in key sectors of national development, including tourism, agriculture, education, technology, and housing.
16. Convene a formal national Town Hall within 30 days of receipt of the petition, focused on concrete policy reform rather than symbolism alone.
17. Establish a multi-stakeholder working group to guide reform and implementation.
18. Promote Pan-African education and public engagement that moves “beyond symbolism toward substantive structural change.”
‘Not a Request for Charity’
The petitioners are explicit about their intentions and their critique.
“This petition is therefore not a request for charity,” the document states. “It is a call for Ghana to align practice with principle. It is a call to move from symbolic connection to a structured, fair, transparent, and policy-driven system worthy of Ghana’s stated commitment to reparative justice and Pan-African leadership.”
The petition also challenges what it describes as the gap between rhetoric and reality. While Ghana has positioned itself as a welcoming home for descendants of those violently removed from the continent, the signatories argue that “symbolic gestures and language, including references such as a ’17th region,’ may have rhetorical value, but they are not enough.”
“We are not asking to be included from the margins,” the petitioners write. “We are calling for a structured, fair, and representative system that reflects Ghana’s own stated ideals, strengthens its global leadership, and makes citizenship, belonging, and national inclusion real in practice.”
Immediate Actions Requested
The petitioners have requested:
- Formal acknowledgment of the petition upon receipt
- Immediate review of the 2026 citizenship process and related diaspora policies
- A written public response within 30 days stating what reforms will be undertaken, on what timeline, and through which institutions
- Ongoing structured collaboration with Historic Diaspora stakeholders as reforms are developed and implemented
The petition has been copied to the Office of Diaspora Affairs, the Ministry for the Interior, Parliament’s Committee on Petitions, and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ).
Global Implications
Ghana has long been at the forefront of African nations seeking to reconnect with the Historic Diaspora. The country’s “Year of Return” in 2019 and subsequent “Beyond the Return” initiative drew thousands of visitors and would-be repatriates from the Americas, Europe, and the Caribbean.
However, this petition — signed by a coalition of diaspora organizations with direct experience of the process — suggests that administrative frameworks have not kept pace with political rhetoric. For other African nations considering similar diaspora engagement or citizenship-by-heritage programs, Ghana’s experience offers a cautionary tale about the gap between welcoming symbolism and exclusionary practice.
The petition’s emphasis on reparative justice also situates the issue within broader global conversations about slavery reparations, historical accountability, and the rights of descendants of displaced peoples — a debate that has gained traction in Caribbean nations, the United States, and at the United Nations.
As of the publication of this story, the presidency has not issued a formal response to the petition. The petitioners have requested a written public response within 30 days.
For the approximately 150 Historic Diasporans who successfully navigated the 2026 process, citizenship has been granted.
But for the thousands more who were interested — and for the coalition now demanding systemic reform, the fight for a fair, transparent, and truly restorative pathway to belonging in Ghana is only beginning.
Ghana News
Ghana Fails to Overturn Thomas Partey’s Canada Visa Denial, Ghana Records At Least 13 University Student Deaths Since 2024, and Other Big Stories
We have carefully curated the most impactful stories from Ghana for our global audience. Check back regularly for new updates.
Ghana Fails in Bid to Overturn Thomas Partey’s Canada Visa Denial Ahead of World Cup Opener
Ghana’s efforts to secure midfielder Thomas Partey’s entry into Canada for the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against Panama have been unsuccessful. An appeal to overturn the visa denial was dismissed by a Canadian federal court, confirming that the Arsenal and Villarreal star will miss the match on June 17. The denial stems from misrepresentation concerns in his application regarding rape and sexual assault charges he faces in the UK, to which he has pleaded not guilty.
Partey remains with the squad in the United States and will be available for subsequent group stage matches against England and Croatia. Canadian authorities emphasised that hosting major events does not alter their immigration laws, while Ghanaian officials continue to express disappointment over the decision. Read the full story here
Ghana Records At Least 13 University Student Deaths Since 2024 Amid Campus Safety Concerns
JoyNews Research has documented at least 13 non-natural deaths among students at Ghana’s public universities since 2024, raising serious concerns about campus safety. The fatalities, primarily from road accidents, suicides, and isolated attacks, have affected institutions including KNUST, UCC, UG Legon, and UEW. KNUST has recorded the highest number of incidents.
Recent cases, including the death of UCC student Innocentia Avinu, have intensified calls for improved security, mental health support, and better lighting on and around campuses. Universities have responded with investigations and counselling, but many cases lack public outcomes, prompting demands for greater accountability and preventive measures. Read the full story here
Mfantsipim SHS Final-Year Student Emmanuel Arthur Commits Suicide
A 17-year-old final-year student of Mfantsipim School in Cape Coast, Emmanuel Arthur, has died by suicide. His body was discovered in an uncompleted building at Ola North on June 11, 2026, in an advanced state of decomposition. Police investigations confirmed the cause of death after recovering the student’s belongings, including examination papers bearing his name.
The tragic incident has saddened the school community as WASSCE preparations continue. Police have concluded their initial probe into the suicide but are still seeking to understand the underlying circumstances. The body has been released to the family for burial. Read the full story here
OSP Clarifies Position on Kenneth Ofori-Atta’s US Residency and Extradition Case
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has clarified that it is not involved in any US immigration proceedings concerning former Finance Minister Kenneth Ofori-Atta. The statement follows reports suggesting he has obtained permanent US residency and that a US court questioned the credibility of charges against him.
The OSP emphasised that extradition matters fall under the Attorney-General’s purview and that any US immigration decisions do not affect the substance of the criminal charges in Ghana. Ofori-Atta remains subject to extradition efforts should US authorities approve them. Read the full story here
‘Ghanaians Are Rooting for You’ – Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang Tells Black Stars
Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has assured the Black Stars of nationwide support ahead of their 2026 World Cup opener against Panama. During a visit to the team’s camp in Toronto, she urged the players to unite and excel, emphasising teamwork and national backing.
The Vice President encouraged the team to push beyond current achievements as the entire country rallies behind them. Read the full story here
World Bank Approves $300 Million to Help Ghana Phase Out Double-Track SHS System by 2027
The World Bank has approved a $300 million package to support Ghana’s Transformative Secondary Education for Access, Results and Relevance for Jobs (STARR-J) Project. The funding aims to expand infrastructure, improve learning outcomes, and eliminate the double-track system in Senior High Schools by 2027.
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu described the initiative as a major investment in human capital development, addressing infrastructure deficits from the Free SHS policy while aligning secondary education with labour market needs. Read the full story here
Man Shot Dead During Anti-Galamsey Operation at Salman in Western Region
A man was shot dead during a patrol by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) at Salman in the Amenfi West District. The incident occurred on June 14, 2026, when individuals allegedly fled upon sighting the team, leading to a chase and gunfire.
Police have commenced investigations, and the body has been deposited at a mortuary. The District Chief Executive visited the scene as authorities work to establish the full circumstances. Read the full story here
Ghana and The Gambia Strengthen Education Partnership Through High-Level Study Visit
A Gambian delegation led by Minister Dr Habibatou Drammeh visited Ghana to learn from its education reforms, governance, digital systems, and policy frameworks. The visit, hosted by Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, focused on foundational learning, teacher management, and accountability tools like the School Report Card.
Both nations discussed establishing a Memorandum of Understanding to deepen cooperation, with The Gambia particularly interested in Ghana’s digital transformation and evidence-based policymaking. Read the full story here
Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire Agree to Harmonise Cocoa Producer Prices
Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire have agreed to harmonise cocoa producer prices and align key policies to improve farmer incomes and market stability. The decision, announced after the 7th CIGCI Steering Committee meeting in Abidjan, includes coordinated trading, data sharing, and a unified crop calendar starting 2026/2027.
A technical task force will develop a price coordination framework. The move aims to reduce smuggling and strengthen the two countries’ influence in the global cocoa market. Read the full story here
Wednesday, June 17, 2026. Stay informed with today’s front pages of Ghanaian newspapers, all in one place.
The Afari Military Hospital saga takes center stage on the frontages today, with the Minority in Parliament rejecting the government’s $85 million payout claim, insisting only $500,000 remains outstanding and labeling the figure “criminal” and part of an NDC “loot and share” agenda. Former NPP flagbearer hopeful Kennedy Agyapong has also waded into the debate, openly admitting the previous NPP administration failed to complete the hospital in eight years.
The Ken Ofori-Atta legal battle is equally prominent, with multiple front pages reporting that on the Green Card granted him by a U.S. court. However, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has swiftly countered that the Green Card ruling does not clear him of Ghana’s extradition proceedings, insisting the case remains active.
Ghana News
Ghana Gold Board Commits GH¢35 Million to Reclaim Forest Reserve Ravaged by Illegal Mining
The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has signed a landmark agreement with the Ghana Armed Forces and the Forestry Commission to commence a nationwide Land Reclamation and Reforestation program targeting areas devastated by illegal mining activities.
The first phase of the ecological restoration project will focus on 50 hectares of degraded land within Compartment 161 of the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, with GoldBod committing approximately GH¢35 million to the initiative. The project is structured with GH¢27.9 million allocated for civil engineering works and GH¢7.2 million earmarked for a ten-year afforestation program.
A Partnership of Discipline and Expertise
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Accra, GoldBod Chief Executive Officer Sammy Gyamfi stated that the decision to begin with the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve was informed by the severity of environmental destruction observed during site visits involving officials from the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
Footage shown at the event revealed extensive damage to vegetation and severe pollution of the Tano River, a critical source of drinking water for surrounding communities.
“We were taken aback by what we saw at Tano Nimiri. The very rich vegetation we once had has been completely destroyed by illegal mining,” Mr. Gyamfi stated.
Under the agreement, the Ghana Army Engineer Brigade will execute the civil engineering component, including pit filling, grading, land reshaping, compaction, and site stabilization . The Forestry Commission will oversee the restoration of vegetation cover through afforestation.
Mr. Gyamfi explained that the military was deliberately chosen as a partner to ensure transparency and integrity in the reclamation process—a response to past incidents where reclamation contracts were abused as cover for further illegal mining.
“Many people have used reclamation contracts as a cover for illegal mining activities. We wanted a partner that embodies discipline, integrity, and patriotism, and we found no better institution than the Ghana Armed Forces,” he stated.
A Dual Approach to the Galamsey Crisis
Deputy Minister for Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi, described the initiative as a crucial intervention that addresses both prevention and restoration in the fight against illegal mining—locally known as galamsey .
“When you overemphasize prevention, you only stop further degradation. The lands that have already been destroyed still require deliberate efforts to restore them,” Mr. Genfi said, adding that the project could serve as a model for similar reclamation efforts across the country .
Forestry Commission Chief Executive Officer Dr. Hugh C.A. Brown commended GoldBod for being the first institution to respond positively to the Commission’s appeal for support. He revealed that a recent survey identified nearly 8,700 hectares of forest reserves degraded by illegal mining—an area equivalent to more than 10,000 football fields .
“We are confident that this partnership with the military will make a significant difference. The military possesses the technical expertise and engineering capacity required for such work,” Dr. Brown stated.
A National Model for Environmental Restoration
GoldBod views the project as its direct contribution to addressing the environmental challenges associated with illegal mining and supporting national efforts to protect Ghana’s forests, water bodies, and biodiversity. Mr. Gyamfi noted that although the destruction occurred before GoldBod’s establishment, the Board considers it a national responsibility to support restoration efforts.
The project is being implemented under GoldBod’s broader Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework and Corporate Social Responsibility agenda, and is expected to serve as a pilot for similar interventions nationwide.
The agreement is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, with civil engineering works expected to commence on July 6, 2026.
The national reclamation program marks the beginning of what is expected to be a sustained and collaborative effort to restore degraded lands across the country, demonstrating that economic development and environmental sustainability can go hand in hand.
Ghana Fails to Overturn Thomas Partey’s Canada Visa Denial, Ghana Records At Least 13 University Student Deaths Since 2024, and Other Big Stories
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