Ghana has stopped accepting new citizenship applications from people of African descent. This pause aims to fix problems and make the system easier to use. Since 2016, Africans who can prove their ancestors came from the continent could apply for Ghanaian citizenship. This started mostly for descendants of those caught in the slave trade. Over 1,000 people, including African American singer Stevie Wonder, have gained citizenship since then. However, some applicants faced issues. They said the process had too many steps and was costly. One big problem was the DNA test requirement. Dr Erieka Bennet, ambassador for the Diaspora African Forum, told the BBC that many found it "impossible" to give DNA evidence within the one-week deadline. Some also doubted how reliable the DNA tests are. The cost is another worry. The first application fee is $136 (about £100). If shortlisted, candidates pay an extra $2,280 (£1,700). After this, applicants are checked and attend a one-day citizenship orientation. Then, they become citizens in a ceremony led by former President John Mahama. Bennet believes these issues will soon be fixed and applications will start again. The Ghanaian government said updated rules and timelines will come "in due course," but did not say when. This pause has caused worry for many who want to move or invest in Ghana. The country has long invited Africans worldwide to reconnect, inspired by its first President Kwame Nkrumah and revived in 2019 during the Year of Return. Many in the diaspora invest in Ghana in real estate, farming, technology, and small businesses. Gaining citizenship helps them buy property, vote, and get public services. Other African countries like Benin and Sierra Leone also give citizenship to people with African ancestry. For more news about Africa, visit BBCAfrica.com or follow BBC Africa on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.