Bessa Simons is the President of MUSIGA
The President of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), Bessa Simons, has disclosed that his body has proposed a state or state-assisted funeral for the late gospel icon Yaw Sarpong.
Speaking in an interview with TV3’s Giovanni Caleb, Simons said the union has formally submitted proposals to the government advocating that the veteran artist receives broader honour and recognition for his contributions to Ghana’s music industry.
“We do so many things behind the scenes. We write to the government when we know the person has contributed to the industry to see if the government can give them proper honour, like a state-assisted burial.
“It’s only the president who can say yes. But we can propose. That’s what we’ve done,” Simons said.
MUSIGA addresses GH¢500 funeral contribution to Yaw Sarpong’s family
Simons added that MUSIGA has engaged relevant officials to ensure high-level support for Sarpong’s final farewell, including taking Sarpong’s family representatives to meet with sector ministers.
Sarpong, who died on January 20, 2026, at age 66 after a prolonged illness, is widely celebrated as one of Ghana’s most influential gospel musicians, having shaped the sound of Akan gospel music through decades of performances, recordings and mentorship.
ID/AE
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