Scrap ban on social gathering – MUSIGA to govt

The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) has made a case for the lifting of restrictions on social gatherings.

The government in a bid to prevent the spread of the coronavirus imposed restrictions on social gatherings and barred all public events on March 15, 2020, initially for a period of 14 days.

The ban was later renewed on April 13, 2020.

President Nana Akufo-Addo lifted the ban on schools and churches on April 19, 2020, but maintained the ban on nightclubs, pubs, theatres and cinemas. However, at the time of going to press, the restrictions on theatres and cinemas have been loosened to an extent.

According to the union, the ban is gripping the music industry.

“MUSIGA would like to add its voice to call on the President to lift the ban on musical performances. We believe it is time for the President to consider lifting the ban to enable us to work and earn incomes for our family

“We would like to assure His Excellency and his team of advisors that the entertainment industry will ensure that all due Covid-19 protocols are observed at our performances so that they do not become breeding grounds for Covid-19”, parts of a press statement from the Union read.

The group entreated the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and the Creative Arts Council to intervene on behalf of the music industry and save it from dying slowly.

“MUSIGA believes public performances by musicians would not breach the Covid-19 protocols when restrictions are lifted” the statement read.

It mentioned that the government has opened many places of work as well as worship centres and thus appealed to President Akufo-Addo to do the same for musicians.