Directed by Rebecca Osam and Emmanuel Raman Wilson
Femme Fatale Studios, under the direction of Rebecca Osam and Emmanuel Raman Wilson, has released a powerful and moving documentary, “Welcome Home,” capturing a historic diaspora citizenship ceremony in Ghana.
Executive Produced by Rebecca Osam, the film documents the deeply emotional conferment of Ghanaian citizenship upon 524 individuals from the Americas, Europe, and the Caribbean, marking a profound moment of homecoming and reconnection with their ancestral roots.
The ceremony, powered by the Presidency in collaboration with the Ministry for Interior and the Diaspora Affairs Office, took place at the Accra International Conference Center.
The film highlights the powerful words of welcome from various officials. Former Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey in his address, emphasises the historical significance of the event, stating it’s a “memorable occasion on the conferment of Ghanaian citizenship to 524 of our kinsmen from the diaspora… who have opted to return home”.
He connects this ceremony to the “Beyond the Return” programme, launched after the successful “Year of Return” in 2019, commemorating 400 years since the first enslaved Africans were taken to America.
Mr. Quartey links this initiative to Ghana’s long-standing tradition of Pan-Africanism, inspired by figures like Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah, George Padmore, and W.E.B. Du Bois.
Further underscoring the cultural and economic significance of this homecoming is a solidarity statement from Mark Okraku-Mantey, former Deputy Minister for Tourism Arts and Culture.
“Today is a momentous occasion not only for the 524 of you joining our Ghanaian family but for the entire nation. Your citizenship symbolizes more than just a change in status; it represents the unity and strength of the African spirit bridging continents and generations,” he stated.
He extends an invitation to the new citizens to “immerse yourself in the unique experiences of our land…explore the majestic castles of Cape Coast and Elmina…relish the bustling market of Ara…participate in our many festivals,” urging them to become “ambassadors for Ghanaian tourism, art, and culture.”
The heart of “Welcome Home” is the keynote address by former President Nana Akufo-Addo.
He acknowledges the historical journey of the diaspora saying: “Our ancestors left these shores in circumstances that were truly tragic and inhumane. They left, but their hearts, and now your hearts, have kept that enduring connection to the African soil.”
The former President further stated that “Ghana today we embrace you as our own, as fellow citizens of this nation, as brothers and sisters, and as part of the Ghanaian family.”
He defines Ghanaian citizenship as more than just paperwork: “To be Ghanaian is more than a title or a passport; it is a way of life. It means caring for one another, showing respect, holding fast to peace, and believing in equity.”
He encourages the new citizens to contribute their skills and experiences to Ghana’s growth, recognising them as “human bridges connecting us to both sides of the Atlantic.” Drawing inspiration from Marcus Garvey, he quotes, “Our success educationally, industrially, and politically is based upon the protection of a nation founded by ourselves, and that nation can be nowhere else but in Africa.”
The documentary captures the solemn and moving administration of the Oath of Allegiance by Justice Ellen Ofair Ayeh, High Court Judge. The new citizens, holding Bibles or Qurans, pledge their allegiance to Ghana, solidifying their commitment to their new nation.
“Welcome Home” is more than just a record of a citizenship ceremony; it is a powerful demonstration of homecoming, heritage, and the enduring bonds between Ghana and its diaspora.
“As directors, and on behalf of The Femme Fatale Studios, we believe in the power of storytelling to bridge divides, foster understanding, and celebrate our shared humanity. This documentary is a reflection of that belief, and we hope it resonates deeply with audiences, both in Ghana and across the global diaspora. We invite everyone to watch and experience the enduring spirit of our nation,” the directors stated.
“Welcome Home” is a must-watch for anyone interested in themes of identity, belonging, and the ongoing story of the African diaspora.
Watch the full documentary here: https://youtu.be/c8-gfmiqfIU
