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Entertainment pundit, Nana Kwaku Duah, has called for immediate government involvement in the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), citing the need to protect the credibility of the nation and safeguard the development of the country’s music industry.
Speaking on Entertainment Lounge on Atinka TV, hosted by Odefour DiAsa Paapa, Nana Kwaku Duah argued that the scheme, which bears the name “Ghana,” cannot be left solely in the hands of private entities who operate it purely for commercial gain.
“This scheme carries the name Ghana. It represents the country internationally, yet it is being run like a private business — with no regard for the country’s reputation or the music industry’s long-term growth,” – he said.
He criticized the current handlers of the TGMA for prioritizing profit over professionalism, accusing them of lacking consistency and standards in how they manage nominations and awards.
“They apply the rules anyhow. Today it’s this, tomorrow it’s that. There’s no fixed standard. Some deserving artists like Philipa Baafi and Bisa K’dei were once unfairly treated,” – he lamented.
While commending the awards scheme for its longevity and role in boosting artists’ profiles, Nana Kwaku Duah condemned the persistent controversies surrounding it, adding that no artist is too big for the scheme — not even the veterans.
“Let’s be clear: no artist can say they don’t benefit from the VGMA. All the big labels look out for it. You may retire and not care anymore, but at your peak, it’s a vital part of your growth,” he noted.
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He also took issue with the practice of requiring artists to apply before being considered for nominations, describing it as illogical and exclusionary.
“It doesn’t make sense that you have to apply before being recognized. If the board really knows and follows the industry, they should celebrate deserving acts without waiting for applications,” – he said.
Nana Kwaku Duah concluded with a passionate appeal for a government-backed structure — involving industry experts — to oversee the awards and ensure that the core values of Ghanaian music are preserved and promoted.
“The musical element must be prioritized. We need experts, empowered by the state, to make sure the awards reflect growth, fairness, and national pride — not just profit.”
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu