Ghana confers citizenship on music legend, Stevie Wonder

The President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Addo Akufo-Addo, has conferred music maestro, Stevie Wonder with Ghanaian citizenship.

 

Akufo-Addo disclosed this on his official X account on Tuesday.

 

The president’s post read, “In conferring Ghanaian citizenship upon Stevie Wonder, we not only extend our warmest embrace to a beloved son of Africa, but also reaffirm our belief in the enduring spirit of Pan-Africanism and the global African family, and the boundless potential of our continent and all its descendants.”

 

It read, “The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has conferred Ghanaian citizenship upon the legendary musician, humanitarian, and global icon, Stevland Hardaway Morris, popularly known as Stevie Wonder.

 

“This conferment, according to President Akufo-Addo, not only recognises his immense talent and achievements but also acknowledges his deep connection to the African continent and his tireless efforts to promote unity, solidarity, and cultural exchanges among all peoples of African descent.”

 

He said his decision to become a citizen of Ghana is a testament to his profound respect and admiration for our nation’s history, culture, and values.

 

 

Describing his new citizenship as a vivid manifestation of the goals of the Year of Return, which was commemorated in 2019 as a bridge between the African peoples on both sides of the Atlantic, he called on all to “draw inspiration from his legacy and strive to build a future where creativity flourishes, diversity is celebrated, and the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood transcend all differences.”

 

Diasporans with Ghanaian citizenship

Stevie Wonder joins several generations of diasporans, like missionaries, policemen, lawyers, doctors, health workers, writers, artists, and musicians, who have committed their lives to making Ghana their home.

 

Notable amongst them, the President said, are the likes of “George Padmore, a close associate of our first President, Kwame Nkrumah; Bob Marley’s widow, Rita, who has found a home with us in Aburi; Maya Angelou, a contemporary of mine at the University of Ghana; Legon, the celebrated writer, who spent a considerable part of her youth with us; and W.E.B. du Bois, the great scholar, who also found a home in Ghana and is buried here.”

 

Defining his life as synonymous with creativity and the transformative power of music, he said Stevie Wonder’s illustrious career, spanning over six decades, has “not only captivated the hearts and minds of millions around the world with his soulful melodies and unparalleled talent but has also used his platform to champion social justice, equality, and human rights.”

 

“From his timeless classics, which have become anthems of hope and inspiration, to his tireless advocacy for the rights of persons with disabilities, Stevie Wonder has touched the lives of countless individuals and left an indelible mark on our collective consciousness,” he added.

 

The President cited a personal favourite and oft-cited statement of the famous Jamaican reggae star, Peter Tosh, who once said, quite rightly, “Don’t care where you come from; as long as you’re a black man, you’re an African.”

 

Stevie Wonder formally embraced Ghanaian citizenship, undertaking the Oath of Allegiance and being awarded his Certificate of Citizenship during a ceremony held at Ghana’s Jubilee House.

 

 

This significant step taken by Wonder echoes his proclamation three years prior, motivated by a quest for a more promising future amidst political unrest in the United States.

 

His deep affection for Ghana became apparent during a 2021 conversation with Oprah Winfrey, wherein he articulated his aspiration to witness the nation’s resurgence of joy before deciding to relocate there.

 

Born Stevland Hardaway Morris in Michigan, Wonder’s musical brilliance manifested early on, establishing him as a true pioneer in the industry.

 

A poignant moment captured in a video from the citizenship ceremony showcases Wonder’s profound emotional connection as he receives his Ghanaian passport, symbolising a significant milestone in his life journey.

 

The warm embrace extended by Ghanaians signifies their heartfelt welcome to the music legend in their society.

 

Renowned for timeless classics such as “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” and “I Just Called to Say I Love You,” Stevie Wonder has left an indelible mark across multiple music genres. Since his discovery by Motown Records in 1961, his influence has been profound, earning him an impressive 25 Grammy Awards and 74 nominations.