American music icon Stevie Wonder arrives in Ghana, receives citizenship

Legendary American singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder has taken the Oath of Allegiance and received his Certificate of Citizenship, officially becoming a Ghanaian citizen.

The ceremony, which took place at the Jubilee House, the seat of government in Ghana, on Monday, May 13, coincided with Wonder's 74th birthday.

This comes after he expressed his decision to relocate to Ghana in a 2021 interview with popular American talk show host, Oprah Winfrey.

Stevie Wonder, in the interview, said he wanted to relocate to a more communal society, away from the political turmoil in the United States.

Upon his arrival at Kotoka International Airport on the morning of Monday, May 13, 2024, Stevie Wonder was warmly received by fans and industry players.

Demonstrating his enduring passion for music, he joined a local music troupe in playing the drums and exchanging pleasantries before proceeding with his activities.

Legal counsel to President Akufo-Addo, Kow Essuman, took to social media to welcome the celebrated musician to Ghana, stating, "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."

The Grammy Award-winning artist, born Steveland Hardaway Morris, is globally recognized for his contributions across various music genres such as R&B, pop, soul, gospel, funk, and jazz.

Stevie Wonder has won 25 Grammy Awards and has been nominated 74 times.

View the pictures and posts below

Legendary musician Stevie Wonder, one of the most creative musical figures of the late 20th century, has arrived in Ghana. Today also marks his visit on his 74th birthday. pic.twitter.com/fMXEYScFAZ

— EDHUB🌍ℹ (@eddie_wrt) May 13, 2024

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.

— Kow Essuman (@kaessuman) May 13, 2024