The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) and the Copyright Office have reaffirmed their commitment to greater collaboration in addressing key challenges facing Ghana’s music industry, including royalty distribution issues and operational hurdles within the Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO).
The high-level meeting, held on 2 June 2025, brought together MUSIGA executives and senior officials from the Copyright Office to explore solutions to longstanding industry concerns. Discussions focused on strengthening copyright protection, improving royalty systems, and resolving disputes within GHAMRO that have hindered its effective functioning.
Royalty distribution delays and inconsistencies were a major concern raised, with MUSIGA President, Mr Bessa Simons, stressing the financial reliance of many musicians on these payments. Despite around 80% of musicians being registered with GHAMRO, irregularities in disbursement remain a pressing issue.
Legal disputes within GHAMRO have further stalled its operations, with conflicts over election procedures, constitutional inconsistencies, and multiple court cases. The Copyright Office clarified that only the courts have the mandate to impose interim leadership, and that the Attorney General’s office must act within legal bounds.
To address the deadlock, it was proposed that neutral mediators or respected industry elders facilitate dialogue among stakeholders. Mr William Akwetey Bonsu, Director of the Copyright Office, urged parties to withdraw legal actions and embrace constructive engagement to prevent further damage to the music sector. He confirmed that legal guidance has been provided to ensure judicial timelines are honoured.
Mr Bonsu also underscored the importance of collaboration between MUSIGA and the Copyright Office in safeguarding the rights of musicians and nurturing a vibrant creative environment. He pledged the Office’s continued neutrality and support for professional unity within the sector.
Mr Simons updated attendees on MUSIGA’s recent activities, including capacity-building programmes focused on digital trends and live band performance.
He outlined upcoming events marking the Union’s Golden Jubilee, such as the Authentic Highlife Nights in July, the She Rhythms Ghana Festival in December, and the long-awaited Presidential Grand Ball, which has not been held since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Also present at the meeting were MUSIGA General Secretary S.K. Agyemang, Administrator Vida Obeng Kwarteng Asante, and Samuel Awuku Djakete, Principal Research Officer of the Copyright Office.
