The iconic musician Stevie Wonder has been officially granted Ghanaian citizenship, marking his 74th birthday.
The legendary singer-songwriter, renowned for his soulful tunes and profound impact on the music industry, received his citizenship on Monday from Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo. The ceremony, held at the presidential palace, was a joyous occasion as Wonder, with a radiant smile, accepted his citizenship certificate alongside a birthday cake adorned with the Ghanaian flag.
Expressing his elation, Wonder described the acquisition of Ghanaian nationality on his birthday as an “amazing thing” in an interview with the BBC. Despite being born and raised in Michigan, USA, Wonder has long harbored a deep affection for Ghana, a sentiment rooted in his connection to the West African nation, thousands of miles from his homeland.
Decades ago, amidst a successful music career, Wonder openly contemplated relocating to Ghana, drawn by the belief that his ancestral lineage could be traced there. While he ultimately remained in the US, his affinity for Ghana never waned. He even composed his album “Conversation Peace” during a visit to the country, underscoring his profound connection to its culture and people.
Wonder’s decision to obtain Ghanaian citizenship resonates deeply with the nation’s rich history of pan-Africanism. Ghana, often hailed as a “Black Mecca” by its founding leader Kwame Nkrumah, has welcomed numerous African-American luminaries seeking to reconnect with their roots. From writer W.E.B. Du Bois to civil rights icons like Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Muhammad Ali, Ghana has served as a beacon of African heritage and identity.
For Wonder, his bond with Ghana was further solidified through encounters with influential figures like late President Jerry Rawlings, with whom he shared memorable experiences, including a remarkable flight across the country. Clad in a traditional kente cloth scarf and surrounded by his family, Wonder’s joy at becoming Ghanaian was palpable, symbolizing a profound personal and cultural milestone.
Ghana’s decision to grant citizenship to Wonder underscores its commitment to embracing the diaspora and recognizing their contributions. With initiatives like the “year of return,” which encourages Africans in the diaspora to reconnect with their roots, Ghana has positioned itself as a welcoming home for individuals seeking to contribute to its growth and development.
Wonder expressed his intention to champion initiatives aimed at empowering Ghana’s youth, recognizing their potential as the continent’s future leaders.
