Accra (Greater Accra) 8 Dec. ’99
Vice-President John Evans Atta Mills on Wednesday commissioned the new headquarters of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) in Accra with a call on Ghanaian musicians to forge ahead in unison.
Professor Mills said because musicians have been divided for so long, people have taken advantage of the situation to exploit them.
"It is about time you came together to forge a partnership. We hope this building will serve as a symbol of unity, a partnership, which will grow from strength to strength."
The Government, in recognition of the contributions of musicians in national development, donated the building, which formerly housed the Passport Office.
It was renovated at about 110 million cedis. The Vice-president commended musicians for their contribution towards national development and urged them to work harder.
"Music is our culture, spirituality and blood that help us in our daily lives. It is, therefore, necessary to promote the industry."
Alhaji Sidiku Buari, President of MUSIGA, expressed concern about the poor state of some musicians and said the union is working on the possibility of insuring musicians and providing them with social security.
He said MUSIGA is in the process of updating its membership and it also intends to introduce policies and a code of ethics to regulate their activities and promote the interest of its members.
Alhaji Buari said as from January next year, all members must ensure that they sign proper contracts with their producers, adding that those who cannot afford the legal fees should contact the office for a standard contract.
He said the union would be organising regular seminars and workshops to educate members on developments and new trends in the industry as well as train people who want to take music as a profession.
GRi./