Sherifa Gunu reacts to omission of 'Traditional Artiste' category from TGMA

Ghanaian musician Sherifa Gunu has expressed disappointment over the removal of the Traditional Artiste category from the Telecel Ghana Music Awards, describing it as a setback for indigenous music in the country.

Speaking in an interview with Anita Akuffo on TV3 on April 16, 2026, Sherifa Gunu stated that the decision reflects how traditional artistes continue to be sidelined within the industry.

According to her, Ghana is blessed with talented indigenous musicians who are not receiving the recognition and support they deserve.

She argued that if such artistes were given the same level of investment and promotion as their mainstream counterparts, many would achieve global success.

“We have very serious artistes in the country. If they had been getting support like other artistes are getting and making money, we would have had many Grammy stories from this country,” she said.

Sherifa Gunu further emphasized the importance of promoting indigenous music to the global market, noting that it plays a vital role in showcasing Ghana’s culture and identity.

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“We need to take artistes who do indigenous music seriously in the country. Bring the artiste out, let’s sing. If the world wants to hear music, we are ready,” she shared.

She also highlighted the growing global recognition of African sounds, referencing developments at the Grammy Awards, but questioned how Ghanaian traditional artistes can benefit if they are not adequately supported locally.

“Because of Ghana, they have put so many categories into the Grammys. They even added Highlife, but they’re still looking to see who will vibe to the world,” she noted.

Sherifa Gunu continued, “The more you vibe to the world, the more they get access to us. If we don’t get help to get to the top, how will they get access to me? That’s the problem we’re facing.”

The artiste added that the exclusion of the category from the awards scheme sends the wrong signal about the value placed on traditional music in Ghana.

“They don’t take traditional artistes seriously, that’s why they omitted the traditional artiste category from the TGMAs,” she added.

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