Ghana Presidential Candidate Proposes $50,000 CIP

The program, which would open to Africans and descendants of Africans, is the first step of Bediako's "Project USA, United States of Africa."

Ahmad Abbas
Amman

Independent presidential candidate Nana Kwame Bediako has unveiled a plan to raise $50 billion by offering Ghanaian citizenship to investors of African descent.

The proposal, part of Bediako’s campaign manifesto launched on September 1, 2024, aims to attract one million Africans to invest $50,000 each in exchange for a Ghanaian passport.

Bediako, also known as “Cheddar,” presented this strategy as part of his 12-point vision for Ghana. He envisions a collaboration between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Interior to “empower the Immigration Services of this country and create the citizenship package to monetize Ghanaian citizenship only for Africans.”

The plan targets both diaspora Africans and citizens of other African nations. Investors could invest in various sectors of the Ghanaian economy, including gold, oil, and agro-processing.

Bediako views this initiative as a step towards African unification, marking the beginning of his “Project USA, United States of Africa.” He believes this approach will welcome Africans through Ghana’s borders while encouraging investment in the country.

Ghana’s passport ranks 70th worldwide, providing visa-free access to 68 destinations. As a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Ghana already participates in a regional free movement protocol, potentially enhancing the appeal of Ghanaian citizenship to investors from outside the bloc.

Bediako sees this proposal as more than a financial strategy. He envisions initiating “a borderless continent” where trade and investment will flourish, with neighboring countries joining the initiative.

The candidate hinted at a “phase two,” inviting a broader group of people of African descent to invest, though he did not provide specific details.

Bediako, who entered politics under the “New Force Movement” banner, faces challenges in his presidential bid. While he has secured a provisional certificate from the Electoral Commission, he lacks full party registration. As a result, he plans to run as an independent candidate in the December 7, 2024 election.

As Ghana approaches this election, Bediako’s proposal adds a new element to discussions on economic development and Pan-African cooperation.