Throwback Thursday: When Michael Jackson presented a golden sword to Rawlings

On November 1, 1995, global pop music sensation Michael Jackson met the late former president Jerry John Rawlings at the Beverly Hilton in California during a formal ceremony hosted by Saudi Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal and attended by distinguished guests.

At the event, Michael Jackson presented Rawlings with a ceremonial golden sword.

The sword, originally given to Jackson by Prince Alwaleed, was intended as a symbol of unity, representing the need to cut through divisions among people across race, culture, and class.

The popstar echoed this message during the presentation, saying:

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“I was advised of your presence in Los Angeles, and I found out about your purpose and your mission to rebuild the continent of Africa ... I love Africa, I adore Africa, I've always loved Africa, and I want you to know you are not alone. I'm here with you, and you'll always be in my heart.”

In return, Rawlings presented Jackson with the “Diamond of Africa” award, recognising his global cultural influence, connection with African audiences, and his humanitarian efforts at the time.

The exchange was part of Michael Jackson’s broader international engagements in the mid-1990s, when he was active in philanthropy and global outreach.

It also reflected Ghana’s efforts under Rawlings to engage prominent figures of African descent on the world stage.

@mensahcore Michael Jackson handing a sword to former president J.J. Rawlings. A global icon honoring a national hero 🇬🇭👑 #ghanatiktok🇬🇭 #michaeljackson #fyp #kingofpop #creatorsearchinsights ♬ 原聲 - king of pop 🥰music enthusiast