MUSIGA: Why Ghanaian Musicians Are Unaware of Key Benefits

“I find it shocking when a musician says they know nothing about MUSIGA. Last year, for example, we did a lot of publicity. We went around the regions, appeared on radio and TV stations, and called on all musicians to join us,” he said. He stressed that MUSIGA remains the only recognised union for musicians in Ghana, warning that the absence of a strong collective body leaves artistes vulnerable. “This is our only union. If we lose this, we don’t have any unions. Those who have joined us are benefiting,” he noted. Mr Simons outlined several support packages available to members, including assistance with access to healthcare. He explained that MUSIGA facilitates the acquisition of National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) cards for its members, following frequent cases of musicians seeking help while hospitalised without health insurance. “We introduced this because I receive many calls from musicians in hospitals who don’t have NHIS cards,” he said. He also highlighted capacity-building initiatives aimed at helping musicians adapt to changes in the industry. According to him, MUSIGA organises workshops to educate members on modern recording and distribution practices, particularly the shift from physical formats to digital platforms. “There was a time we used CDs, but now we don’t. It will surprise you that some musicians are still putting their music on CDs. Through our workshops, we teach them how to record and upload their songs onto digital platforms so they can earn income,” he explained. Mr Simons added that MUSIGA provides support for artistes without formal management structures, noting that many emerging and unsung musicians rely on the union for guidance and representation. He said the union also plays a role in shaping government policies affecting the music industry and facilitates exchange programmes for its members. He concluded by urging musicians who have yet to join MUSIGA to do so, warning that they are missing out on critical support and opportunities available through the union.