The Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO) has announced a comprehensive plan for 2026 aimed at modernising its operations, improving transparency, streamlining royalty distribution, and enforcing copyright compliance across Ghana’s music industry, Executive Officer Jackson Brefo told Joy Showbiz A to Z host Kwame Dadzie.
Brefo acknowledged that misinformation and a lack of understanding have historically hampered GHAMRO’s relationship with its members and other stakeholders. “People sometimes do not understand what governs or how collective management organisations, or CMOs, run,” he said. “Mostly, we are tempted to trivialise operations of such entities in our country. But it is out of this that we are positioning the organisation to be the best-performing CMO in Africa, if not West Africa.”
As part of its long-term strategy, GHAMRO has developed a five-year plan that involves engagement with international organisations including the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC). A central component of this plan is stakeholder engagement.
Beginning at the end of January 2026, GHAMRO will host a quarterly webinar series aimed at educating members and stakeholders about the operations of the organisation. “Every quarter, messages will flow for our members, radio presenters, and anyone interested in GHAMRO operations to register and join the webinars,” Brefo said. The webinars are scheduled for March, June, September, and November.
The webinars are designed to clarify issues surrounding royalty collection, particularly for members who are also affiliated with international performance rights organisations such as PRS in the UK or ASCAP in the United States. “If you are a member of PRS, your money will be sent to PRS for you to claim,” Brefo explained, adding that these practices follow international standards.
Digital transformation is a second pillar of GHAMRO’s plan. Members no longer need to visit GHAMRO offices to register or submit works. Instead, they can submit applications online via GHAMROonline.org. Brefo emphasised that royalties are only paid to registered members, with unclaimed funds held in what is referred to as the “undistributed royalties” pool. “You need to submit your works, then we match it in the WIPO Connect distribution pool, and your royalties can be paid,” he said.
Modernisation of royalty distribution is also underway. GHAMRO is now monitoring all channels that pay royalties, from digital platforms to live performances. Members will receive detailed statements showing which works generated royalties and the amounts earned. “In December, we piloted this system. Every member whose works were used digitally or in live performances received a statement,” Brefo said. “In the next distribution cycle, all members will receive their statements. This ensures transparency and allows members to verify payments.”
Licensing enforcement is another major focus. GHAMRO has long struggled with private radio and TV stations using music without paying royalties. To address this, the organisation will publish the names of non-compliant users by the end of March 2026. Brefo stressed that this public disclosure is intended to encourage compliance.
When asked what happens if stations continue to refuse payment after publication, Brefo confirmed that GHAMRO will pursue legal action. “We will file civil lawsuits, and we are also speaking with the Copyright Office to pursue criminal prosecution,” he said. “Infringement on copyright has both civil and criminal remedies under Ghanaian law.”
The reforms are designed to ensure fair compensation for artists and restore confidence among stakeholders. Brefo said the combination of digital tools, regular communication, and strict enforcement will make GHAMRO a model CMO in Africa. “Distribution, licensing, and member engagement will now be modern, accountable, and enforceable,” he said.
These initiatives also signal a shift in how Ghanaian music rights are managed. By integrating digital submission, detailed statements, and enforcement measures, GHAMRO aims to create a transparent system where artists can track the use of their works and receive payment accordingly.
The organisation’s focus on stakeholder education through webinars is particularly notable. Many members previously expressed confusion over how royalties are collected and distributed, especially for those affiliated with foreign performance rights organisations. The quarterly webinars aim to demystify these processes and provide clarity on international practices.
Brefo also highlighted that the reforms will encourage compliance from broadcasters and other music users. By publicly naming non-paying entities and following up with legal action, GHAMRO seeks to establish accountability and deter future infringement. “Please do not stand by,” he said, stressing the importance of compliance within the Ghanaian jurisdiction.
In summary, GHAMRO’s 2026 agenda centres on four main pillars: stakeholder engagement, digital transformation, modernised royalty distribution, and licensing enforcement. The organisation plans to leverage technology, international best practices, and legal mechanisms to ensure that artists and creators receive fair remuneration for the use of their works.
If successfully implemented, these reforms could position GHAMRO as a leading CMO not only in West Africa but across the continent. By enhancing transparency, improving operational efficiency, and enforcing licensing compliance, the organisation aims to strengthen Ghana’s music industry and ensure that copyright holders are properly compensated.
“GHAMRO is sending a clear message,” Brefo said. “Compliance with copyright laws is mandatory. Distribution is transparent, and all stakeholders have a role to play in protecting the integrity of Ghana’s music industry.”
Through digital innovation, regular stakeholder engagement, and rigorous enforcement, GHAMRO is striving to create a sustainable and accountable music rights ecosystem in Ghana, ensuring that creators are paid fairly while protecting the long-term growth of the industry.