Creative Arts: Enhanced royalty collection key – Bawumia
GHANA’S Vice-President and the Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has called for a more effective approach to the collection of royalties to support the Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO) in fulfilling its mandate.
This was highlighted during a media interaction on Sunday, where Dr. Bawumia outlined his administration’s efforts in the Creative Arts sector and introduced new initiatives aimed at furthering its development.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized the significance of the Creative Arts industry as a vital contributor to economic growth, stressing the need for increased investment to propel the sector forward. He noted that the current methods of royalty collection, often involving third parties, need reevaluation to ensure that artists receive their due earnings more efficiently.
“One of the concerns raised during discussions is the process of collecting royalties. I’ve been informed that some artists have appointed intermediaries to handle this for them. In my view, we need a more streamlined approach that will better assist GHAMRO in this area. We plan to introduce tax incentives, including a flat tax system, to address this issue,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
Additionally, the Vice-President announced plans to establish a travel protocol service to support artists, performers, and other creatives in fulfilling international engagements. This initiative is aimed at easing the logistical challenges they face when performing abroad.
Dr. Bawumia also highlighted several infrastructural projects that have been completed to boost the creative arts sector. These include the renovation of the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, the development of Bunso Eco Park and Bonwire Kente Museum, and the upgrade of the Kintampo Waterfalls. Additionally, the Vice-President mentioned the government’s support for key cultural events in Ghana, such as ‘Beyond the Return’, ‘Chalewote’, and ‘Rhythms On Da Runway’, among others. These initiatives underscore the administration’s commitment to fostering the growth of the Creative Arts industry in Ghana.
