"Who is a Ghanaian?" - Okyeame Kwame on National Identity
When Kwesi Kwarteng became head of the treasury in England, I remembered how we celebrated in Ghana, as the mention of his name alone brought smiles to proud Ghanaians and finance students. When Obama became president of America, most of us in Africa were very proud, given that he was half-Kenyan. Ethan Ampadu playing for the English national team makes waves for Ghana every time he steps on the pitch. Iñaki and Nico Williams developed their skills as world-class footballers on foreign soil.
When I mentioned Akua Kuenyehia (first Ghanaian judge at the Hague) on my "Made in Ghana" album, many of my fans were filled with joy. So, my question is: how do we feel as a people when a person of a different descent than the majority of us is given a huge responsibility, role, and honor in Ghana?
I write this because of my brother Kojo Choi. He was born in South Korea but moved to Ghana with his father at age 14. He scored 5 in BECE Twi. He went to the University of Ghana, Legon, and became a proud Ghanaian. He gave up his Korean citizenship and even takes a Korean visa just to visit his birthplace. He financially supported Akwesi Frimpong to represent Ghana in the 2018 Winter Olympics. You don't want to eat Banku from the same bowl as Kojo; he's fast. Waakye suffers in his presence. He employs many Ghanaians and treats them amazingly.
Long story short, Kojo Choi is a Ghanaian, not just because he holds our passport but because he has immersed himself deeply in Ghanaian culture. In my opinion, Kojo Choi becoming Ghana's ambassador to South Korea is a blessing to Ghana because he's a naturalized Ghanaian who has taken the pain to understand the nuances of Ghanaian society, speaks Korean, and has a lot of experience in diplomacy when it comes to South Korea's relationship with Ghana.
Long story short, above everything else, the guy is my friend; my children call him Uncle Kojo. Let's support him to forge a formidable relationship between South Korea and Ghana.
The Author ,Okyeame Kwame ,nicknamed Rap Doctor, is a Ghanaian musician, songwriter, fashion icon and a Developmental Activist.
