In order to discuss the candidacy of Ghana’s famous Highlife music for inclusion on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) recently met with Edmond Moukala, UNESCO’s Country Representative for Ghana.
It is anticipated that the designation, which is set for December 2025, will raise Highlife’s profile internationally and open up business prospects for Ghanaian performers and the country.
President Bessa Simons, Second Vice President Abena Ruthy, General Secretary S.K. Agyemang, and Director of Communications and Special Projects Ahuma Bosco Ocansey were among the important people who attended the meeting.
Carl Ampah, UNESCO Culture Specialist; Dr. Samantha Hollingworth of MUSIGA; and Augustine Mark, Head of Ram Media Concepts, creators of the upcoming She Rhythms Ghana festival, were among the others.
The gathering comes before She Rhythms Ghana, a celebration of Ghana’s musical heritage, especially the achievements of women in music, which is scheduled for December 4-6, 2025.
“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,”Moukala noted, emphasizing that the UNESCO designation is more than a cultural milestone — it also holds considerable economic potential for the country.
MUSIGA underlines its dedication to preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage and enhancing the local music industry’s worldwide influence by working with UNESCO.
