Described as one of the most peaceful countries on the continent, Ghana gained its independence from Britain on this day in 1957.
Like many great nations on the continent of Africa, the Republic of Ghana was marred by the influx of European colonization but on March 6, 1957, led by its independence leader Kwame Nkrumah, it became the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence.
Named after the medieval West African Ghana Empire, Ghana and its first president Nkrumah gained the attention of the world after its successful colonial resistance, which was linked to the struggle against racism in the diaspora.
Sixty-three years on, the country remains one of the few politically stable countries on the continent and it’s also a model of development for other African countries.
The country made headlines last year when it launched its “Year of Return” program that encouraged African Americans and the black diaspora to return to the country where their ancestors were once kidnapped for enslavement.
Scores of African Americans who visited the country also experienced its history, culture and tradition upfront.
Known also for its exploits in the world of sports, business, technology, academia, and entertainment, here are some famous people of Ghanaian descent you should know: