Ghanaian singer and songwriter Sista Afia has called on musicians, entertainers and other stage performers to take microphone hygiene more seriously by cleaning shared microphones before using them at concerts and public events.
The popular Ghanaian musician, whose real name is Francisca Duncan Williams Gawugah, raised concerns about the number of people who sing, speak and breathe directly into microphones that are later used by other performers.
In a social media post on Friday, August 28, 2026, Sista Afia encouraged artistes to take simple hygiene precautions to reduce their exposure to germs that may be present on frequently shared equipment.
“I’m going to say something controversial, but my fellow artists need to hear this. Please disinfect the mic before you put your mouth on it,” she wrote.
Sista Afia Raises Concerns Over Shared Microphones
According to Sista Afia, musicians often move from one event to another without knowing how many people have previously used the microphones supplied by event organizers.
At major concerts and entertainment events, a single microphone can be used by musicians, backing vocalists, masters of ceremonies, technicians and other speakers during the same programme.
“We go from show to show sharing microphones with God knows how many people. Everyone is singing, talking, breathing and sometimes literally putting their mouths on the mic,” she said.
The singer noted that some performers return home feeling unwell after attending shows. While she acknowledged that illness cannot automatically be linked to shared microphones, she believes maintaining good hygiene around frequently used equipment is a reasonable precaution.
Advice on Microphone Hygiene for Performers
As a practical measure, Sista Afia advised musicians and other performers to carry microphone-safe disinfectant sprays or sanitizing wipes in their bags.
She encouraged artistes to clean shared microphones before beginning their performances, particularly when they do not know who previously used the equipment.
“I honestly think artists should start carrying a small microphone-safe disinfectant or sanitizing spray or wipes in their bags and clean the mic before performing,” she stated.
However, performers should ensure that any cleaning product they use is specifically suitable for electronic equipment and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This can help prevent damage to microphones, windscreens and other audio equipment.
Sista Afia Suggests Personal Microphones
The Ghanaian singer also suggested that musicians who can afford it should consider investing in their own microphones and taking them to performances.
Using personally maintained equipment could reduce the need to rely on microphones that are frequently handled and used by several people during concerts and other public events.
“And if you can afford it, maybe it’s time to start bringing your own microphone to shows,” she said.
Sista Afia noted, however, that performers who bring their own microphones should coordinate with sound engineers before events. Microphones need to be compatible with the venue’s audio equipment and the technical setup being used.
‘Not Every Sickness Comes From a Microphone’
Sista Afia was careful to point out that not every case of illness experienced after a concert or performance should be blamed on a shared microphone.
She maintained that the large number of people who come into contact with stage equipment makes basic hygiene practices worthwhile.
“I’m not saying every sickness after a show comes from a microphone, but with so many people sharing the same equipment, why not take precautions?” she asked.
She concluded by encouraging fellow musicians to make microphone cleaning and personal hygiene part of their regular preparation before taking the stage.
“My fellow colleagues, please let’s start taking this seriously. Your health first. Disinfect your mic before you perform,” she added.
Fans React to Sista Afia’s Advice
Sista Afia’s comments have generated reactions from fans and social media users, with some agreeing that microphone hygiene should receive greater attention in different settings.
Some users also noted that the issue extends beyond concerts and applies to churches, radio studios, schools, public events and other places where microphones are regularly shared.
The discussion has further drawn attention to the responsibility of event organizers and production teams to maintain proper hygiene standards for shared audio equipment.
Providing replaceable microphone windscreens, microphone-safe cleaning wipes and clear equipment-cleaning procedures could help improve hygiene at concerts and public events.
Sista Afia’s message ultimately encourages Ghanaian musicians and performers to adopt a simple backstage practice: clean shared microphones before use and prioritize personal hygiene when performing at public events.
Source: newsthemegh.com