The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) and the Copyright Office have renewed their commitment to working more closely together to resolve persistent challenges in Ghana’s music industry, particularly those related to royalty distribution and the operational inefficiencies of the Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO).
At a high-level meeting held on June 2, 2025, executives from MUSIGA and senior officials from the Copyright Office convened to discuss practical solutions to the sector’s longstanding issues. Key topics included strengthening copyright enforcement, enhancing the efficiency of royalty distribution systems, and addressing internal conflicts within GHAMRO that have hampered its operations.
MUSIGA President Bessa Simons highlighted the importance of royalties for musicians’ livelihoods, noting that despite approximately 80% of artists being registered with GHAMRO, irregular disbursements remain a significant concern.
The meeting also addressed legal disputes affecting GHAMRO, including disagreements over election protocols, constitutional gaps, and multiple lawsuits. The Copyright Office clarified that only the judiciary has the power to appoint interim leadership and emphasized that all actions must align with guidance from the Attorney General’s Department.
To break the impasse, stakeholders suggested bringing in neutral mediators or respected industry veterans to facilitate dialogue. William Akwetey Bonsu, Director of the Copyright Office, encouraged all parties to consider withdrawing legal actions and focus on open, constructive engagement to avoid further harm to the sector. He confirmed that legal counsel had been provided to help parties adhere to judicial timelines.
Mr. Bonsu reiterated the Copyright Office’s role as a neutral body and emphasized the need for stronger cooperation with MUSIGA to protect musicians’ rights and promote a thriving creative industry.
During the meeting, Bessa Simons also provided updates on MUSIGA’s initiatives, including training programs centered on digital innovation and live band performance. He shared details of upcoming events celebrating MUSIGA’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, returning for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Also in attendance were MUSIGA General Secretary S.K. Agyemang, Administrator Vida Obeng Kwarteng Asante, and Samuel Awuku Djakete, Principal Research Officer at the Copyright Office.