President Mahama Grants
Ghanaian Citizenship
to African Diaspora

Congratulations to President Mahama on Granting Ghanaian Citizenship to Members of the African Diaspora

December 28, 2016, marks a historic milestone that will be remembered for generations — the day the Joseph Project, envisioned by the late Jake Otanka Obetsebi-Lamptey, reached a powerful moment of realization. On this day, 35 African descendants from the Americas and the Caribbean were officially granted Ghanaian citizenship.

Though the number may appear modest, the significance is profound. It is a symbolic yet powerful gesture of reconnection — a call for unity and healing between Africa and its global diaspora. This act of Pan-African solidarity sets a precedent and deserves to be emulated across the continent by other African nations.

Once again, Ghana — the first African nation south of the Sahara to gain independence — has led the way, reaffirming its role as a beacon of Pan-Africanism and homecoming.

On December 28, 2016, Ghana once again made history — not with fanfare or flourish, but through a powerful and dignified act of Pan-African reconnection. On this day, 35 descendants of enslaved Africans from the Americas and the Caribbean were officially granted Ghanaian citizenship. It was a moment of deep symbolism, long overdue, and destined to echo across the African continent and its far-flung diaspora.

This significant gesture marked the fulfillment of the Joseph Project, a vision conceived by the late Jake Otanka Obetsebi-Lamptey, who foresaw the day when Africa would reclaim its stolen sons and daughters — not just spiritually, but legally and politically. While the number may seem modest, its symbolism is monumental. It signals Ghana’s continued leadership in Pan-Africanism and continental unity.

Not a Favor, But a Right

As President John Dramani Mahama rightly and humbly declared during the ceremony, “This is not a favor being done to them — it is their inalienable right as people who were forcibly taken from these shores.” His words reflect a deep understanding of historical responsibility. Ghana, home to the largest number of European forts and castles outside Europe, carries the visible scars of the transatlantic slave trade. But rather than remain a place of pain alone, Ghana is positioning itself as a gateway of healing — a place of return, restoration, and rebirth.

The President's statement was more than ceremonial. It was transformative. In honoring the right of return for these 35 individuals, Ghana sent a clear message: Africa remembers its diaspora, and Africa welcomes them home.

A Torch for the Future

President Mahama has lit a bright torch for the continent. In a symbolic and strategic act, he has moved into the ranks of international statesmen and Pan-African heroes. This singular gesture places him alongside the likes of Kwame Nkrumah, Julius Nyerere, and Haile Selassie — leaders who envisioned a united and empowered African people, both at home and abroad.

As President Mahama said during the event, we look forward to the day when our brothers and sisters from the diaspora will be able to receive visas on arrival, just like their fellow Africans. This is not only possible — it is necessary. Let us hope that President-elect Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo carries this mantle forward. Granting visa-on-arrival privileges to the African diaspora would not only be a bold diplomatic move, but a statement of Pan-African commitment that would catapult him into iconic status in the legacy of African unity.

A New Chapter in Nation Building

Let us now embrace this moment with open hearts and open minds. These new Ghanaian citizens are not just symbolic returnees — they are doctors, engineers, artists, teachers, technologists, and entrepreneurs. Imagine tens of thousands more from the diaspora returning home with skills, knowledge, and capital to contribute to Ghana’s development. It would be a monumental boost to our knowledge-based economy and a significant step toward inclusive national transformation.

Of course, concerns about background checks and security are valid. As Interior Minister Mr. Mark Woyongo (referred to here as Mr. Bani) indicated, due process will be observed to ensure that only genuine, law-abiding applicants are welcomed. Ghana's generosity will be matched by its vigilance.

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Gratitude to the Champions Behind the Scenes

This milestone was made possible not just by those in the spotlight, but also by tireless champions behind the scenes. I must salute my own former teacher at St. Thomas Aquinas Secondary School, the distinguished Ambassador Kwesi Quartey, then Secretary to the President, for his pivotal role in seeing this initiative through. Also, heartfelt thanks to Ambassador Erika Bennett, Dr. Hamet Maulana, and all the unsung heroes who helped turn this vision into reality.

And personally, I will forever treasure the autographed program given to me by President Mahama — a keepsake of this extraordinary day. It’s a reminder that history is not just something we read about — it’s something we can live, shape, and celebrate.

Walking the Talk

Today, I feel proud — not just as a Ghanaian, but as an African among Pan-African brethren. We have not just spoken of unity; we have acted on it. We have walked the talk. And in doing so, we honor our ancestors, uplift our present, and inspire our future.

As Haile Selassie so powerfully said, “Africa awaits its creators and creation.” That creation begins with people. And on this day, Ghana gave 35 creators back their identity, their belonging, and their home.

Let us carry this torch forward — not just as a gesture of goodwill, but as a blueprint for Africa’s rebirth.

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