By William C. Jackson
There is a new trend occurring as of late, where countries on the continent of Africa are now offering citizenship to Black Americans. According to PassportHeavy.com, there are eight countries doing so, along with a ninth, Benin.
Here are the eight African countries offering citizenship, per PassportHeavy:
- Ghana
According to PassportHeavy, Ghana, known for its rich culture and history, was one of the first African countries to pave the way for diaspora integration. Under its ‘Right of Abode’ policy, it grants the right to stay indefinitely for individuals of African descent, especially targeting African Americans and Afro-Caribbeans.
Here are some things to know:
Eligibility is open to people of African descent living outside the continent of Africa, and they can stay indefinitely, and possibly apply for citizenship. Ghana has integration programs in place, such as the “Year of the Return,” to promote cultural exchange and understanding.
- Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone offers citizenship by descent to individuals who can prove their lineage. This initiative is grounded in the belief of reuniting the diaspora with their ancestral lands, per PassportHeavy.
Here are some things to know:
To be eligible for citizenship, proof of lineage is required. Upon providing ancestry, they can apply to become citizens.
- Nigeria
According to PassportHeavy, Nigeria recognizes the value of its global community. Though there are certain limitations on acquiring Nigerian citizenship, especially through naturalization, there’s a strong push to accommodate those with Nigerian origins. In recent events, Nigeria granted citizenship to hundreds of foreign nationals, emphasizing the mutual love and loyalty between the country and its new citizens.
Here are some things to know:
To apply for citizenship, proof of Nigerian lineage is required. Upon providing ancestry, they can apply to become citizens.
- South Africa
South Africa has been at the forefront of numerous progressive policies since the end of apartheid. In a recent move, the nation has taken an unprecedented step in strengthening its diaspora ties by offering free citizenship to Black Americans. This gesture represents both a historical nod and a forward-thinking strategy in building bridges between two influential communities, per PassportHeavy.
Here are some things to know:
Black Americans relocating to South Africa will bring with them a blend of African American culture, which can intermingle with South African traditions, creating a richer, more diverse tapestry. The potential influx of Black American professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors could spur economic growth, innovation, and development in various sectors of the South African economy. Finally, this initiative might pave the way for enhanced collaboration between the US and South Africa, spanning diplomacy, trade, and culture.
- Gabon
According to PassportHeavy, Gabon, with its rich biodiversity, is not only a gem of nature but also believes in strengthening ties with its diaspora by offering citizenship routes for those of Gabonian descent.
Here are some things to know:
To be eligible for citizenship, proof of Gabonian ancestry must be provided. Upon verification, they can gain citizenship.
- Cape Verde
Per Passport Heavy, Cape Verde has enacted laws allowing people of Cape Verdean descent to apply for nationality, emphasizing its commitment to nurturing an inclusive national identity.
Here are some things to know:
To be eligible for citizenship, proof of Cape Verdean ancestry must be provided. Upon receipt, they can become full citizens.
- Zimbabwe
In a landmark decision that has captured global attention, Zimbabwe has announced its plan to offer free citizenship to Black Americans. This audacious move signifies Zimbabwe’s commitment to strengthening the bond between the African continent and its diaspora. The proposal stands as a testament to the nation’s vision of fostering international unity, collaboration, and mutual growth, according to PassportHeavy.
Zimbabwe’s government has simplified the citizenship process for Black Americans interested in this offer. Traditional barriers, such as prolonged residency prerequisites, financial investments, or tedious bureaucratic procedures, have been significantly reduced or eliminated. The idea is to ensure that those interested can transition seamlessly.
- Kenya
In recent years, Kenya has shown increasing interest in reconnecting with its diaspora. The Kenyan government recognizes the potential benefits of welcoming back descendants of the continent, especially from the US, given their skills, knowledge, and potential investments.
While the process of gaining Kenyan citizenship isn’t straightforward, there are provisions for people of African descent to apply. Kenya’s constitution allows for persons who can prove Kenyan ancestry or have legally resided in Kenya for a specific period to seek naturalization.
- Benin
Benin’s President, Patrice Talon, passed a law in September 2024 that gives citizenship to those who can trace their lineage to the slave trade, part of an attempt by the country to reckon with their participation in the slave trade.
According to Black Enterprise, the way the law works is that anyone over the age of 18 who does not already hold African citizenship and can provide proof that an ancestor was deported via the slave trade anywhere in Sub-Saharan Africa is eligible to become a citizen of Benin.
In Benin, however, the olive branch carries additional significance because Benin was often a port of departure for many Africans during the slave trade; an estimated 1.5 million enslaved people were sent out from the Bight of Benin, territory that includes present-day Benin, Togo, and part of present-day Nigeria.
Benin’s authorities will accept a variety of materials, including DNA tests, authenticated testimonies, and family records.