The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) recently met with Edmond Moukala, UNESCO’s Country Representative for Ghana, to discuss the nomination of Ghana’s iconic Highlife music for inclusion on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Scheduled for December 2025, the recognition is expected to boost Highlife’s global profile and unlock economic opportunities for Ghanaian musicians and the nation.
Key attendees at the meeting included Bessa Simons, President; Abena Ruthy, Second Vice President; S.K. Agyemang, General Secretary; Ahuma Bosco Ocansey, Director of Communications and Special Projects.
Others included UNESCO Culture Specialist Carl Ampah, Dr Samantha Hollingworth of MUSIGA, and Head of Ram Media Concepts Augustine Mark, producers of the forthcoming She Rhythms Ghana festival.
The meeting precedes the She Rhythms Ghana festival, set to take place from December 4-6, 2025, which will celebrate Ghana’s musical heritage, particularly the contributions of women in music.
Moukala emphasized that the UNESCO listing has significant economic potential beyond cultural pride.
“Our relationship with UNESCO is invaluable. The support we receive fortifies our efforts to preserve, promote, and sustainably develop Ghana’s musical heritage. The UNESCO recognition of Highlife will elevate our artists on the world stage and create new pathways for growth and international collaboration.”
Edmond Moukala
By collaborating with UNESCO, MUSIGA reaffirms its commitment to protecting Ghana’s cultural legacy and boosting the local music industry’s global impact.
Ga Mantse Pledges Support for MUSIGA’s 50th Anniversary Celebrations
The Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty Nii Teiko Tsuru II, pledged his support for the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) as the association marks its golden jubilee.
He has also been formally named as Chief Patron of MUSIGA, a move that cements a strong alliance between traditional leadership and Ghana’s music industry.
During a courtesy call at the Ga Mantse’s Palace, Nii Teiko Tsuru II, who also serves as President of the Ga Traditional Council, acknowledged the crucial role of musicians in shaping Ghana’s cultural and national identity.
He urged artists to be mindful of their lyrics and the influence their music wields on society.
He further encouraged MUSIGA to take the lead in advancing the local music industry, ensuring it remains a force for cultural preservation and socio-economic growth.
MUSIGA President Bessa Simons expressed appreciation for the Ga Mantse’s warm welcome and counsel.
He reaffirmed the union’s commitment to professionalism, unity and the continued development of the creative sector. “We are deeply honoured by the Ga Mantse’s trust and support. MUSIGA remains committed to nurturing our artists and the industry, ensuring our music not only entertains but also inspires positive change and reflects the rich cultural heritage of Ghana,” Bessa Simons said.
The meeting was attended by several traditional leaders, including Nii Adotey Otintor II, Paramount Chief of Sempe and Mankralo of the Ga State; Nii Ayikai II, Paramount Chief of Akanmandzen; Nii Duodu Nsaki II, Paramount Chief of Otublohum; Nii Ahene Nuunu, Paramount Chief of Abola and Atofotse of the Ga State; and Nuumo Akwaa Mensa II, Wulomo of the Ga State.
MUSIGA officials present were Second Vice President Abena Ruthy; National Organiser Chizzy Wailer; Administrator Vida Ofosua Kwarteng Asante; and Director of Special Projects and Communications Ahuma Bosco Ocansey.
Over the past five decades, MUSIGA has contributed significantly to Ghana’s creative industry, supporting musicians and producing timeless works from legends such as Nana Ampadu, Daddy Lumba, Kojo Antwi, and Reggie Rockstone.
The union continues to champion Ghanaian music as a source of cultural pride and national development.
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