“Film is not only entertainment but a mirror of our society, a vessel of our heritage, and a bridge to the world.” With these words, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Yussif Issaka Jajah, speaking on behalf of Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, set the tone for a renewed national conversation about the future of Ghana’s film industry.
The occasion was the National Film Industry Dialogue, held at the University of Ghana’s Cedi Conference Centre and organized by the National Film Authority (NFA) in partnership with the Ministry. The gathering drew together government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and creative minds—an uncommon but necessary coalition—determined to accelerate the growth of Ghanaian cinema.
Under the theme “Accelerating Industry Development,” participants tackled pressing challenges that have long held the sector back: limited financing, poor production infrastructure, and restricted access to both local and global markets. For many stakeholders, these are not just technical hurdles but barriers standing in the way of film’s potential to drive job creation, showcase Ghanaian heritage, and project the nation’s image on the world stage.
Discussions emphasized that film is more than storytelling; it is a strategic tool for economic growth and cultural diplomacy. A vibrant film sector can attract foreign investment, promote tourism, and harness digital innovation to give Ghanaian stories a global audience. For a country whose music and fashion already resonate worldwide, cinema offers the next frontier of cultural influence.
Stakeholders left the dialogue with a sense of optimism, hopeful that the platform would mark a turning point for reforms and investments. What is at stake is bigger than the industry itself—it is the ability of Ghana to tell its own stories, preserve its heritage, and create opportunities for the next generation of filmmakers.
The message from the Cedi Conference Centre was clear: Ghana’s film industry cannot be left on the margins of policy and investment. It must be seen—and supported—as a national asset, vital for identity, economy, and global presence.
