The Happy Man Bitters Upper East Music Awards (HMB-UEMA) 2024 is set to dazzle music lovers on Saturday, January 11, 2024, at the GNAT Hall in Bolgatanga. Now in its sixth edition, the awards scheme has become a beacon of hope and opportunity for musicians and industry personalities in the Upper East Region.
With 26 categories ranging from Artiste of the Year to Group of the Year, the event promises to honor the region’s finest talents. Each winner will receive a cash prize of GH¢1,000.00, adding to the excitement and competition.
A platform for growth
Launched in 2019, the HMB-UEMA was created to celebrate, nurture, and expose talents in the Upper East Region. The initiative is the brainchild of Dr. Emmanuel Bortey Borketey, CEO of Charger Limited, the producer of Happy Man Bitters.
Dr. Borketey’s vision has elevated the region’s music industry, providing artists with visibility and opportunities for national and international collaborations.
“HMB-UEMA is a great opportunity to showcase and increase market share. It has made the industry visible and competitive,” said Pandy, the 2022 Artiste of the Year.
Reviving a struggling industry
Before the inception of HMB-UEMA, the music industry in the Upper East Region struggled to survive. From 2000 to 2018, the absence of organized structures left many young talents without support. HMB-UEMA has changed this narrative, investing hundreds of millions of Ghana cedis annually to revitalize the industry and inspire young artists.
The Man Behind the Vision
Dr. Emmanuel Bortey Borketey, a philanthropist and entrepreneur, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the region. Despite limited local support, he continues to invest in the music industry and other developmental projects.
In 2022, Dr. Borketey received Honorary Georgia Citizen recognition in the United States. Recently, he supported two regional bloggers with GH¢10,000.00, emphasizing his belief in the power of media and youth development.
A Night of Rewards
This year, Dr. Borketey has added another layer of excitement: flight tickets between Tamale and Accra for the top three Artiste of the Year winners in 2025.
“Best of luck to all nominees. Let’s keep supporting UEMA to grow to the level we all desire. Remember, others started but couldn’t sustain it due to lack of support and togetherness,” he noted.
Beyond Music
Dr. Borketey’s impact transcends music. He continues to provide social amenities for rural communities and supports talented youth in various crafts.
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