The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) celebrated its Golden Jubilee Soiree on Saturday, November 29, at the Labadi Beach Hotel, under the distinguished auspices of the Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, represented by Nii Adote Odaawulu I- Sempe Akweiman Mantse & Paramount Muslim Akwashongtse.
During the event, MUSIGA presented a special award to President John Dramani Mahama in recognition of his unwavering support for Ghana’s creative industries, particularly the music sector. The award was received on his behalf by Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo.
The citation praised President Mahama for “recognizing that the heart of Ghana’s Music Industry beats in the lives of its people and is secured by its institutions,” highlighting his advocacy for the welfare of aged and struggling musicians. It also commended his leadership in establishing the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, reinforcing the sector’s role in national development.
Other distinguished awardees included veteran ethnomusicologist Professor Edmond John Collins; former MUSIGA Presidents Agya Koo Nimo, Alhaji Sidiku Buari, Diana Hopeson, and Bice (Obour) Osei Kuffour; UK-based international promoter Freddie Annan; Dr. Adrian Odoi Oddoye, CEO of +233 and the Ghana Jazz Foundation; and retired longest-serving MUSIGA Chairman Ben Kolaan.
The Soiree attracted prominent attendees including Edmond Moukala, Head of UNESCO Ghana; H.E. Thando Dalamba, South African Ambassador to Ghana; industry leaders, musicians, and stakeholders. Performances featured Obrafour, Pat Thomas, Smart Nkansah, Adane Best, Asabea Cropper, and a percussion cameo by Mr. Moukala with the Bessa Band.
A commemorative book, The MUSIGA Story, chronicling the union’s 50-year journey, was auctioned. Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe secured a copy for GHC 10,000, with additional copies acquired by Mrs. Theresa Ayoade, CEO of Charterhouse Ghana; US-based businessman Kobi Manful; and Ahotor FM. Nana Oye Bampoe reaffirmed government support for the creative industries, while Mr. Moukala emphasized their integral role in Ghana’s 24-hour economy and called for sustained investment.
The event also marked the launch of MUSIGA’s flagship initiatives for 2026: Ghana Music Honour, the MUSIGA Presidential Grand Ball, and Live Band City, signaling the union’s ongoing commitment to elevating Ghana’s music and creative sectors.
The Soiree was organized by Showbiz Africa and supported by Stanbic Bank, Club Beer, and Telecel.
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