MUSIGA Strikes a Chord with Minimum Wage Plan for Musicians
The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) has made a groundbreaking move to introduce a minimum wage system for its members, ensuring committed musicians receive fair compensation for their work and contributions to the industry. This initiative aims to alleviate financial challenges faced by many musicians struggling to earn a sustainable income.
The decision was made at the MUSIGA National Capacity-Building Workshop, held on September 5-8, 2024, at Erata Hotel, East Legon in Accra. The workshop covered crucial topics, including Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), MUSIGA’s Gender Policy, financial management, and contractual agreements.
MUSIGA will engage with stakeholders, including employers of musicians, event organizers, and venue owners, to discuss the implementation of the minimum wage. Thomas Dayan, Deputy General Secretary of the International Federation of Musicians (FIM), emphasized the importance of CBAs in guaranteeing minimum wages for musicians globally.
International partners, including the Swedish Musicians Federation (SMF), shared insights on communication and financial management within musicians’ unions. MUSIGA’s President, Bessa Simons, expressed optimism about the workshop’s outcome, noting that it equipped participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to lead the union in their respective regions.