Sarkodie made history earlier this month when he was the first to be awarded in the category of Best International Flow at the BET Hip Hop Awards. In his acceptance speech, he mentioned that this year is the ‘year of return’ and he encouraged the audience to choose Ghana as a destination if they are coming to Africa.

On 30th October 2019, at the Creative Arts Industry Forum at the National Theatre, Sarkodie was named an Ambassador for the ‘Year of Return’ and was given the honour by Barbara Oteng Gyasi, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture.  He also received a citation for all his achievements in the music industry and his great contribution to Ghana’s creative arts.  

Sarkodie exemplifies what it means to stay true to your culture and share it with the world.  Throughout his career, he has heard people suggest he limit the use of local language in order to crossover in the international market.  In sticking to his vision, he not only exposed the world to one of Ghana’s languages through his music, but he also proved that a Ghanaian can be successful on a global level while holding onto their language and culture.

The Year of Return marks 400 years since the first documented ship of enslaved Africans arrived in Virginia, USA on August 20, 1619.  Ghana is commemorating the year and celebrating the resilience of people of African descent. In doing so, the initiative encourages people of African descent to visit Ghana and explore the history, heritage and culture.