H.E. Anne Sophie Ave, the French ambassador to Ghana, has defended the Ghana Music Rights Organization (GHAMRO), which is responsible for collecting music royalties in Ghana. She claims that a variety of variables have a role in the sluggish development of GHAMRO's field efficacy.
Anne Sophie Ave discussed the ongoing split between artists, business people, and GHAMRO. As in the case of France's SACEM (Society of Authors, Composers, and Publishers of Music), the ardent music enthusiast thinks that a trip of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
She said to Joy FM's Kofi Hayford during the opening of the "France - Ghana Cooperation" music wing at her house last Saturday, "SACEM... was formed in 1851, so it's a rather ancient organisation. Thus, it has practically existed for 140 years, although GHAMRO is just 8 years old. By way of contrast, the French Ambassador claims that those who criticise should allow Ghana's sole legal organisation for collecting royalties a chance to develop.
These responses are in response to criticism levelled against GHAMRO by members of the industry and various pressure organisations, like the Ghana Music Alliance, who believe that the organisation has done a dismal job of carrying out its duties in the interests of dedicated artists. Rex Omar, Chairman of GHAMRO, has defended the organization's activities on the other side, claiming that it is constrained in many respects by Ghanaian legislation.
However, H.E. Sophie Ave disclosed French Embassy intends to assist Ghana in better managing music rights and royalty collection. She stated, "SACEM's technical capabilities are entirely different, thus we are really eager to connect SACEM and GHAMRO so that GHAMRO can do its duties more easily.
GHAMRO is anticipated to make progress in its discussions with the French Embassy over its plans to establish a commercial partnership with SACEM. The operations of GHAMRO will probably get better as a result of the partnership.