By Ernest Nutsugah
Accra, Nov. 08, GNA – Mr. Andrew Egyapa Mercer, Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture (MoTAC) has urged Ghanaian musicians to be innovative and use the power of music to help drive economic growth.
In a speech read on his behalf at the launch of the 50th Anniversary celebrations of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) in Accra, he highlighted the potential of the music industry in boosting national revenue and called for more investments in the sector.
“The music industry is a potent economic driver; generating revenue through album sales, concert tickets, merchandise and streaming royalty…Music tourism can attract visitors to our country, boosting the tourism sector and generating foreign exchange.
“As we launch MUSIGA’s Golden Jubilee, it is imperative to explore innovative ways to leverage the power of music to further our national development goals,” he stated.
The Anniversary themed “Positioning MUSIGA for Growth in the Digital Age,” would begin January 2025.
Mr. Divine Owusu Ansah, Director of Culture at MoTAC, speaking on behalf of the Minister, praised MUSIGA for championing the interest of local artistes and helping shape national identity.
He touched on efforts including the Music Wall of Fame established in the Western Region, aimed to “preserve and promote” the country’s music heritage, indicating that similar initiative would be replicated in other regions.
Mr. Ansah added that the Ministry would help address challenges in the music industry such as copyright infringements, access to finance, and limited infrastructure.
He urged MUSIGA to honour the legacies of their pioneers and continue to support the next generation of music talents in the country.
“…By addressing the challenges we face, making the necessary investment in music infrastructure and leveraging the power of music to drive economic growth, we can ensure a bright future for the Ghanaian music industry,” he noted.
The Director announced a review of the National Culture Policy, pending approval of Cabinet for implementation.
Mr. Bessa Simons, MUSIGA President, said the Golden Jubilee intends to raise awareness, and celebrate the rich history and impact of MUSIGA over the years.
He paid tribute to past and present leadership of the Association and cited some achievements of the Association since its formation in December 1975.
Emphasising the importance of digitalisation in the music industry, he called for unity among industry players and more support from corporate bodies.
Some of the programmes for the year-long celebration, the Association said, include lectures and symposia, and an all-women’s music festival which would attract female musicians from across the world.
Nana Otuo Owoahene Acheampong, Nkabomhene of Kumawu Traditional Area in the Ashanti Region, encouraged musicians to embrace the dynamics of the industry and preserve the uniqueness of Ghanaian music.
The traditional leader who doubles as Executive Director of the National Commission on Culture (NCC) congratulated the MUSIGA, and tasked members to “push boundaries” and remain committed to the craft.
MUSIGA unveiled an anniversary logo and a digital management platform, done in collaboration with a private entity, Omni Strategies. The website, among other things, would help streamline activities of the Association.
GNA