Stevie Wonder has been appointed messenger of peace for people with disabilities by the UN.

The Grammy Award-winning blind singer will promote the international organisation at his public appearances.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told Reuters Wonder was “a true inspiration to young people all over the world”.

"He has consistently used his voice and special relationship with the public to create a better and more inclusive world, to defend civil and human rights and to improve the lives of those less fortunate," Ban added.

Wonder has sold more than 100 million records and collected 25 Grammys during his thirty year career.

In February, the star was presented with the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song by US president Barack Obama.

(by Jason Gregory)