Copy Ghana Leads Stakeholder Forum to Advance Copyright Licensing and Promote Creative Industry Growth
In a bold step toward enriching Ghanaian culture and advancing education, Copy Ghana, in partnership with key stakeholders, organized a national forum to address pressing issues within the creative arts industry. The event focused on the importance of copyright licensing as a tool for both cultural preservation and intellectual property protection.
The forum brought together representatives from government, academia, and the creative community to deliberate on how collective licensing can support authors, creators, and educational institutions. It emphasized the significance of granting licenses to organizations and institutions for the legal reproduction of copyright-protected materials from both print and digital sources.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Asare Konadu, Chairman of Copy Ghana, reaffirmed the organization's mandate to promote institution-based licensing, as assigned by rights holders.
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| Mr. Asare Konadu, Chairman of Copy Ghana |
“The first point of protection is the property owner. They must take initiative to safeguard their works,” Mr. Konadu stated.
He added that Copy Ghana is committed to public education and outreach to encourage a licensing culture that supports both creators and educators, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their intellectual efforts.
Representing the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Mr. Akwutey Bonsu emphasized the broader developmental implications of copyright law.
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| Mr. Akwutey Bonsu |
“Copyright law is not just a legal concept but a development tool. It protects the fruits of creative labor and ensures that creators' rights are not overlooked,” he said.
Mr. Bonsu hailed the recent amendment of Ghana’s Copyright Act—LI 2469, 2023—as a significant milestone reflecting the government's dedication to protecting intellectual property.
However, he stressed that legislation alone is not enough.
“We need more awareness and stronger enforcement to ensure no one is left behind,” he urged.
He commended Copy Ghana for its leadership in not only licensing but also educational initiatives, and encouraged institutions to engage in collective licensing partnerships.
Mr. Bonsu also reaffirmed the Ministry of Justice’s commitment to strengthening the legal framework supporting collective licensing, and called for enhanced collaboration among government agencies, civil society organizations, academia, and the creative arts community.
Reported By Azaglo Michael





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