Conferring Ghanaian citizenship upon Stevie Wonder a reaffirmation of our belief in Pan-Africanism — Akufo-Addo

Ghana conferred citizenship upon legendary American musician Stevie Wonder in a reaffirmation of the country's belief in Pan-Africanism, President Nana Akufo-Addo has said.

In a statement on Tuesday, May 14, President Akufo-Addo stressed that it also signifies the country’s extension of embrace to the African native.

“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 the global African family, and the boundless potential of our continent and all its descendants,” wrote the president on X.

On Monday, Legal Counsel to the President Kow Essuman announced that Wonder, whose real name is Stevland Hardaway Morris, had taken the Oath of Allegiance and received his Certificate of Citizenship by Registration at the presidential office known as Jubilee House in Accra.

“Stevie Wonder is officially Ghanaian. He has just taken the Oath of Allegiance and received the Certificate of Citizenship by Registration at Jubilee House. Congratulations, Sir and welcome to Ghana,” Essuman stated.

The 69-year-old Wonder has long expressed pride in his African roots, referring to himself as "the third from the sun" in songs in the 1970s, reflecting a desire to connect with the continent.

Best known for classic hits like "Superstition," "You Are the Sunshine of My Life," and "I Just Called to Say I Love You," Wonder is celebrated globally for his soulful voice and pioneering musicianship.