May 5, 2025
On 26th April, 2025, Liando Africa in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy, Ghana, and Jambo Spaces organised a legal-educational event themed “Create for Pay” to mark this year’s World Intellectual Property Day (WIPD). The event, held in Accra, focused on the intersection of intellectual property rights (IPR), creative monetisation, and industry sustainability.
The event was participated by a diverse group of stakeholders including artists, legal practitioners, music executives, policymakers, and representatives from key government institutions. Performances from Yeye, Anabel Rose, Darkua, and E.L., alongside the Blue Jackets Band, added creative energy to the legal and business-focused discussions.
Proceedings began with a panel discussion moderated by Kwasi Sarfo Akonnor featuring:
- Winnie Myers, Assistant State Attorney at the Ghana Industrial Property Office.
- Kwabena Mensah, Private Legal Practitioner.
- Paul Azumah-Ayitey, Music Business Executive & Creative Consultant.
- Nana Yaw Anim, Music Rights Manager & Catalog Administrator.
The panel examined foundational issues surrounding intellectual property including the nature of protectable works, enforcement mechanisms, common infringements, and strategies for rights management. Particular emphasis was placed on educating creatives about practical steps for revenue generation beyond traditional streaming platforms. Panelists highlighted opportunities in publishing, sync licensing, live performances, merchandise, and neighbouring rights.
Although briefly disrupted by rainfall, the event resumed with a representative of the U.S. Embassy introducing the Music Mentorship Program (MMP) – a flagship initiative aimed at building the capacity of emerging Ghanaian music professionals. The Embassy reiterated its support for Ghana’s creative industries with a focus on empowering young talent.
Two beneficiaries of the program – Antoinne Boama (Team Lead, Entertainment Law at Liando Africa) and Richie Mensah (Music Executive and Entrepreneur)- shared personal experiences from the mentorship and stressed the importance of structured legal and business education within the creative space.
Lilian Geraldo, Managing Partner at Liando Africa Legal, extended appreciation to Dr. Kwame Nyampong, President of Liando Africa Legal, who joined proceedings virtually. She also acknowledged the contribution of sponsors – Black Oak Developers, Franklyn and Partners, and Cliqlaw- as well as institutional partners including the U.S. Embassy and Jambo Spaces.
The event concluded with networking opportunities and free legal consultations. “Create for Pay” reaffirmed a core message in this year’s WIPD theme: creators must not only protect their intellectual property, but must also structure their careers to be commercially viable and legally secure.
