Monday May 13, 2024 | Jubilee House, Accra | ๐๐ซ๐๐ฌ๐ข๐๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐ค๐ฎ๐๐จ-๐๐๐๐จ ๐๐จ๐ง๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐๐ก๐๐ง๐๐ข๐๐ง ๐๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐ณ๐๐ง๐ฌ๐ก๐ข๐ฉ ๐จ๐ง ๐๐ญ๐๐ฏ๐ข๐ ๐๐จ๐ง๐๐๐ซ | Ghanaโs President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, recently conferred Ghanaian citizenship upon the renowned American Musician and Songwriter, Steveland Morris, popularly known as Stevie Wonder.
The ceremony, held at the Jubilee House in Accra, symbolized a significant milestone in Ghanaโs endeavors to attract diasporan Africans and acknowledge remarkable contributions to the African diaspora.
President Akufo-Addo lauded Stevie Wonder for his remarkable contributions to music and unwavering dedication to the African diaspora. He highlighted Stevie Wonderโs music as a source of inspiration for generations of Ghanaians and Africans globally, expressing optimism that his visit would strengthen the bonds between Africa and its diaspora.
Hon. Henry Quartey, Minister for the Interior, praised the President for spearheading the Year of Return initiative, resulting in the registration of 252 individuals from African-American and Caribbean Diasporan Communities as Ghanaians.
Stevie Wonder, a long-time admirer of Ghanaโs rich cultural heritage, expressed profound gratitude and honor for the citizenship bestowed upon him. He expressed his deep connection to Ghanaโs vibrant culture and warm hospitality, expressing joy at being able to call himself a Ghanaian citizen.
โI felt Ghana, I felt my civilization was there and I was there when it began so I thank all of you so very much. I always say this is just the beginning of the best of my life to do Godโs purpose. And my wife said to me come here and Iโm hereโ. said Stevie Wonder
The event marked a significant stride in Ghanaโs engagement with its diaspora and recognition of their remarkable contributions to the African diaspora. It is anticipated to catalyze further collaboration and exchange between Ghana and the African diaspora, solidifying Ghanaโs status as a hub for African cultural and intellectual excellence.