The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) has met with Mr Edmond Moukala, UNESCO’s Country Representative for Ghana, to discuss the inclusion of Ghana’s iconic Highlife music on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The expected enlistment, set for December 2025, is projected to strengthen Highlife’s global recognition while opening new economic opportunities for Ghanaian musicians and the nation.

Present at the meeting were MUSIGA President Bessa Simons, Second Vice President Abena Ruthy, General Secretary S.K. Agyemang, and Director of Communications and Special Projects Ahuma Bosco Ocansey. 

Others included UNESCO Culture Specialist Carl Ampah, Dr Samantha Hollingworth of MUSIGA, and Head of Ram Media Concepts Augustine Mark, producers of the forthcoming She Rhythms Ghanafestival. The event, hosted by MUSIGA from 4 to 6 December 2025, will celebrate Ghana’s musical heritage, particularly the contributions of women in music.

Mr Moukala highlighted that the proposed UNESCO listing goes beyond cultural pride, stressing its economic potential. 

“The enlistment of Highlife is a powerful opportunity not just for cultural preservation but for economic empowerment. When Highlife is mentioned anywhere in the world, it will be synonymous with Ghana. We must be ready to harness this connection to generate tangible benefits for musicians and the Ghanaian economy,” he stated.

MUSIGA President Bessa Simons expressed gratitude for the collaboration with UNESCO.

“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,” she said.

MUSIGA’s engagement with UNESCO underscores its commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s cultural legacy while leveraging global recognition to strengthen the local music industry and enhance its socioeconomic impact.