"Gollywood" was Akufo-Addo's idea – Bod Smith

The Executive member of the Film Producers Association of Ghana (FIPAG), Bob Smith, has revealed that the new name for Ghana’s film industry 'Gollywood' was suggested by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

According to him, the new name is part of attempts by the President to help improve the movie industry in Ghana.

Last week, some stakeholders in the movie industry launched the new name at the Ghana 60 Years on Film Summit.

The new name has, however, been received with criticisms and controversies with a couple of organisations disassociating themselves from the introduction of the name.

But speaking on Hitz FM, Bod Smith said, “One thing I know is that President Akufo-Addo said it and said that he wants to bring up a vibrant film industry. He mentioned Hollywood, Nollywood and this gave us the impression that he has accepted a name that follows that line."

President for Film Directors Guild of Ghana (FDDG), Richard Boateng, who spearheaded the rebranding from Ghallywood to Gollywood said those disassociating from the suggested name are only sabotaging him and his organization.

"They have their reasons for backing off...I was disappointed when I saw this statement signed by FIPAG. Something happened some years ago and I feel I am been sabotaged. 

"I don’t know why they also want me to consult everybody before I take a decision with my organization," he added.

Gollywood takes after America’s Hollywood, India’s Bollywood and Nigeria’s Nollywood.