Ghanaian songstress Francisca Gawugah, popularly known as Sista Afia, has taken a bold stand against what she perceives as the undervaluation of her contributions within the country’s music industry, particularly at prestigious events like the Ghana Music Awards.
In a candid Facebook post shared on Sunday, March 31, 2024, Sista Afia voiced her frustration, expressing that her efforts in the music scene are consistently overlooked and marginalized by the organizers of the Ghana Music Awards scheme. Despite establishing herself as a prominent figure in Ghanaian music with hits like “Jeje” and “Weather,” Sista Afia believes that her impact warrants greater recognition.
The singer highlighted her disappointment, noting that her hit song, ‘Asuoden,’ failed to receive any nominations despite its popularity in 2021. She also revealed her awareness of musicians receiving nominations without filing for them, implying a lack of transparency in the nomination process.
“Have I offended someone at the high table Ghana Music Awards? The fact that ‘Asuoden’ was a big song in 2021 [with] zero nominations which I still don’t get,” Sista Afia wrote. “The downplay on my efforts ever since I started doing music in Ghana hasn’t been fair to my craft. And yes, it hurts because I work so hard. I’ve been quiet for so long because I have respect for the scheme, and I don’t want to step on anyone’s toes.”
Sista Afia’s candid remarks shed light on the challenges faced by artists in the music industry, particularly regarding recognition and appreciation for their work. Her decision to speak out reflects a desire for fairness and transparency within the Ghana Music Awards and the industry as a whole.
As a respected artist with a dedicated fanbase, Sista Afia’s words carry weight and spark important conversations about the need for equitable treatment and recognition of artists’ contributions. Her courage to address these issues publicly serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for fairness and accountability in the music industry.
Moving forward, Sista Afia’s statement encourages dialogue and reflection within the Ghanaian music community, with hopes of fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all artists. As the industry evolves, it is essential to address concerns and work towards creating a platform that celebrates and uplifts the diverse talents that contribute to Ghana’s vibrant music scene.
