Ghanaian musician Livingstone Etse Satekla, popularly known as Stonebwoy, has urged Ghanaians, particularly the youth, to uphold patriotism, unity, and national pride as the country reflects on its independence struggle. In an interview on Ahotor FM's Adekyee Mu Nsem programme in Accra-Tema on September 21, 2026, Stonebwoy emphasized the importance of collective efforts and determination in achieving independence. He noted that Ghana's independence was not simply handed to the country but was achieved through the sacrifices of people from different backgrounds.
According to Stonebwoy, the independence struggle involved market women, ex-service personnel, students, farmers, traders, and people from various social backgrounds who put aside their differences and united behind the quest for self-determination. He said this experience demonstrated that unity was one of the greatest weapons used in achieving independence. Stonebwoy also highlighted the role of young people in Ghana's independence struggle, noting that several leaders who spearheaded the movement were relatively young, including Kwame Nkrumah, who was about 39 years old in 1948.
Stonebwoy stressed the importance of self-determination and the ability of Africans to think for themselves rather than depend entirely on external assistance. He also pointed to the emphasis placed by Ghana's independence leaders on education, industrialisation, and self-reliance, saying those principles remain relevant to the country's development today. Furthermore, Stonebwoy called for a renewed spirit of patriotism, expressing concern about a growing tendency among some Ghanaians to focus more on what the country can do for them rather than what they can contribute to the nation.
The musician urged citizens to be mindful of how they speak about Ghana, particularly on social media, arguing that national challenges should not become an excuse to constantly denigrate the country. He said every country has its troubles and stressed the need for Ghanaians to work collectively to address the challenges confronting the country. Stonebwoy also considers it part of his responsibility to represent Ghana positively through his music and international engagements.
Stonebwoy further emphasized the importance of a collective Ghanaian identity, noting that when Ghanaians travel outside the country, their first identity is often simply that of being Ghanaian. He therefore called for a stronger sense of national identity, saying political differences should not be allowed to destroy the common values that bind Ghanaians together. He also urged citizens to support good initiatives regardless of who introduces them and to speak against wrongdoing irrespective of political affiliation.
According to Stonebwoy, Ghana's progress should be the ultimate objective rather than partisan interests. He said the celebration and remembrance of Ghana's independence should serve as an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the sacrifices of the past and renew their commitment to building a stronger and more united country. Stonebwoy's call for patriotism and unity comes as Ghana marks its independence anniversary, providing a reminder of the country's history and the importance of working together towards a common goal.
Stonebwoy's message is particularly relevant to the youth, who he believes are not too young to contribute meaningfully to Ghana's development. He urged the youth to recognise their role in shaping the destiny of the nation and to uphold the country's image and contribute to its development regardless of their political, ethnic, or religious backgrounds. By doing so, Stonebwoy believes that Ghanaians can work collectively to build a stronger and more united country.
Key points
- Stonebwoy calls for patriotism and unity among Ghanaians on the country's independence anniversary.
- The musician emphasizes the importance of self-determination and collective efforts in achieving independence.
- Stonebwoy urges the youth to contribute meaningfully to Ghana's development and uphold the country's image.
