On May 13, I had the incredible honor of being part of the team that welcomed the legendary Stevie Wonder to Ghana. This momentous occasion was not just a celebration of his birthday but also the day he received his Ghanaian citizenship. Working with the Ghana Tourism Authority at the Beyond the Return Secretariat, the experience was both professional and deeply personal. I never imagined that in my lifetime I would one day meet Stevie Wonder, whose music was a big part of my childhood and youth.
Our day began with a warm reception at the Kotoka International Airport in Accra. Stevie Wonder was greeted by an enthusiastic cultural troupe that performed traditional Ghanaian music and dance. In a heartwarming moment, Stevie joined in, touching the drums and sharing in the rhythms that connect so deeply with our heritage.
From the airport, we proceeded to Jubilee House, where President Nana Akufo-Addo formally conferred Ghanaian citizenship upon Stevie Wonder. This ceremony was a profound acknowledgment of his contributions to music and culture, and it underscored the growing bond between Ghana and its diaspora. It also fulfilled a lifelong dream for Wonder, who said that since the 1970s he has wanted to be a citizen of Ghana.
The celebrations continued into the evening with a press conference at the African Regent Hotel, where Stevie Wonder shared his thoughts on his new citizenship and his love for Ghana. His words resonated deeply with everyone present, highlighting the importance of cultural connections and the unity of the African diaspora. He also shared the desire to contribute to society through supporting marginalized communities like those who suffer from blindness, like himself.
The night concluded with a joyous birthday celebration at the Labadi Beach Hotel. It was a double celebration, as it was also the birthday of Stevie Wonder’s youngest son, Mandla. The event was a beautiful blend of music, culture, and community, reflecting the vibrant spirit of Ghana. The highlight of the night came when Ghanaian singer, Rocky Dawuni, graced the stage with a performance that had Wonder so excited he got up and joined him on stage singing a couple of songs.
Organized by the Ghana Tourism Authority and the Beyond the Return Secretariat, this day was a testament to our dedication to building connections with the diaspora and celebrating our shared heritage. Welcoming Stevie Wonder and witnessing his embrace of Ghanaian citizenship was an unforgettable experience that I will never forget!
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