The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) marked a historic milestone on Saturday, November 29, 2025, with a prestigious Golden Jubilee Soirée at the Labadi Beach Hotel. The event celebrated 50 years of shaping Ghana’s cultural identity and advocating for the welfare of musicians.
The soirée was held under the patronage of the Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, and brought together an array of industry titans, government officials, and traditional leaders.
Key Awards and Honours
The evening featured the Ghana Music Honours, where MUSIGA recognized individuals who have been pivotal to the union and the industry:
- President John Dramani Mahama: Received a special award for his unwavering support of the creative industries. The award was accepted on his behalf by Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, Deputy Chief of Staff (Administration).
- Former MUSIGA Presidents: Awards were presented to Agya Koo Nimo, Alhaji Sidiku Buari, Diana Hopeson, and Bice Osei Kuffour (Obour).
- Industry Pioneers: Honors were also given to veteran ethnomusicologist Professor John Collins, UK-based promoter Freddie Annan, and Dr. Adrian Odoi Oddoye (+233 Jazz Bar CEO).
A major highlight was the launch and auction of the MUSIGA@50 Commemorative Book, titled “The MUSIGA Story”. The first copy was secured by Nana Oye Bampoe Addo for GH₵10,000, with other copies bought by Theresa Ayoade (CEO of Charterhouse) and US-based businessman Kobi Manful.
🎤 Performances and Future Outlook
The night featured a blend of legendary and contemporary sounds, with performances by: Highlife icons Pat Thomas and Smart Nkansah, Vocalist Asabea Cropper, palmwine highlife group Kwanpa and Grammy nominee Rocky Dawuni.
In her address, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo highlighted the government’s GH₵20 million Creative Arts Fund and a partnership with TikTok aimed at boosting digital skills and fair compensation for creators. Current MUSIGA President Bessa Simons reaffirmed the union’s mission to establish a National Music Museum and a Hall of Fame to permanently honor the nation’s musical legends.
