524 African diaspora people received Ghanaian citizenship on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, marking a historic event at the Accra International Conference Centre.
Celebrated for the third time under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s leadership, the occasion honored Ghana’s longstanding relationship with its international diaspora.
The event marks 400 years since the first Africans were brought to the Americas as slaves, and it is a part of a larger movement that started with the 2019 “Year of Return.”
According to President Akufo-Addo, the occasion marked a critical turning point in the process of reestablishing ties between the African diaspora and their ancestral roots.
“Your ancestors left these shores in circumstances that were tragic and inhumane. Today, we embrace you as our own—as fellow citizens of this nation and as part of the Ghanaian family,” he said addressing the new citizens, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the emotional and historical significance of the occasion.
“It is about embodying values such as respect, equity, and peace. These are the principles that define us as a people, and we invite you to make them your own as you integrate into our society,” according to the President, being a Ghanaian is more than just having a passport.
Rekindling connections with Africa, the Year of Return brought hundreds of thousands of visitors to Ghana, the President recalled. The project created the foundation for closer ties and ignited a global dialogue on the African diaspora’s contribution to the continent’s future.
“Your skills, knowledge, and experiences from all over the world enrich our nation. Whether in education, healthcare, technology, or the arts, you have the potential to drive Ghana’s growth,” he said.
“You are human bridges connecting us across the Atlantic. Your presence dispels misconceptions and tells a new story of unity, pride, and potential,” he noted.
President Akufo-Addo reminded the new citizens of the common heritage that all persons of African origin share, quoting Marcus Garvey and Peter Tosh.
“Ghana welcomes you with open arms, this is a reaffirmation of our collective identity and destiny, and it goes beyond a simple ceremony,” he stated.
He promised that the government is still dedicated to keeping Ghana a friendly and active place for the diaspora to call home.
The administration’s commitment to fostering closer relationships with Africans overseas is demonstrated by the policies already in place to encourage investments, partnerships, and community-building projects.
Source: newsthemegh.com