By Stephen Asante
Accra, Dec. 30, GNA – President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo posthumously awarded Marcus Garvey the Order of the Star of Ghana, Member, recognizing his profound contributions to black nationalism and Pan-Africanism.
“Garvey’s Pan-African ideals continue to resonate deeply, urging us to unite as global Africans and take charge of our destiny.
“His legacy, along with those of others who are no longer with us, is a clarion call for us to carry forward their unfinished work,” the President noted in an address at the National Honours and Awards 2024, in Accra.
Marcus Garvey (August 17, 1887 – June 10, 1940), a Jamaican black nationalist, dedicated his life to promoting African consciousness. His legacy continues to inspire pride and unity among black communities worldwide.
Garvey founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) in Jamaica in July 1914, aiming to advance black nationalism by celebrating African history and culture.
His ideas significantly influenced Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, inspiring Ghana’s fight for independence, which led to the country becoming the first in sub-Saharan Africa to gain sovereignty in 1957.
The National Honours and Awards programme, established in 1960, honours Ghanaians who have excelled in various fields of national development. It recognizes creativity, innovation, excellence, and hard work.
The 2024 edition saw distinguished individuals receive awards in categories such as the Order of the Volta, Member; Order of the Volta, Companion; Order of the Star of Ghana, Member; Order of the Star of Ghana, Officer; Grand Medal; and Presidential Honours for Distinguished Service.
Alongside Garvey, other recipients of the Order of the Star of Ghana, Member included Justice Annin Yeboah (public service), Professor Ato Essuman (education/public service), Nana Susibiribi Krobea Asante (traditional leadership), and Dr. Ernest Addison (financial/public service).
More than 60 individuals and institutions across all fields of endeavour were recognised for their hard work.
Institutions honoured at the ceremony comprised the United Nations Development Programme, China-Africa Development Fund, International Organisation for Migration, Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Police Service, Ghana Prisons Service, and Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences.
President Nana Akufo-Addo said: “Each award is a story, a story of commitment and love for Ghana.”
“At its core, this ceremony is about celebrating the human spirit. It is about recognising the normal people who achieve extraordinary things.
“It is about saying thank you to those who remind us that no matter the challenges we face, we can overcome them with courage, determination, and love for our country,” he stated.
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia was also in attendance at the programme.
GNA