Stevie Wonder, the legendary American singer, has been granted Ghanaian citizenship by President Nana Akufo-Addo, a move aimed at bolstering Ghana’s connection with the African American community. Wonder’s new passport signifies his profound affinity with the West African nation.
Known for his iconic song "Superstition" and winner of 25 Grammy Awards, Wonder has expressed his desire to relocate to Ghana due to increasing racism in the United States. This citizenship grant follows the trend of other celebrities like Ludacris, Idris Elba, Samuel L. Jackson, and Tiffany Haddish, who have also received citizenship from African nations.
Stevie Wonder, originally from Michigan, views his Ghanaian citizenship as the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. He believes this step unites Africans with members of the diaspora in the United States and the Caribbean. During a special ceremony at the presidential palace in Accra, Wonder highlighted his spiritual connection to Ghana, stating that he feels his history and culture originated there.
The event took place on his 74th birthday, with his family present. President Akufo-Addo praised Wonder’s respect for Ghanaian history and culture. This initiative aligns with Ghana’s Year of Return program launched in 2019, encouraging Afro-descendants to reconnect with their ancestral roots. Over the past four years, more than 1,500 African Americans have settled in Ghana, contributing to this cultural renaissance.
Wonder joins a distinguished list of personalities, including Rita Marley, who have embraced Ghana as their new home. This trend underscores the country’s growing appeal and its strategic efforts to strengthen ties with the African diaspora.