Ministry of Tourism suspends new name for Ghana Movie Industry

The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has suspended the usage of the newly selected brand name for Ghana's film industry— Blackstar Films.

In a statement issued by the Ministry on Monday, December 20, 2021, the sector Minister, Dr Ibrahim Mohammed Awal, said the usage of the Blackstar Films “be put on hold pending the outcome of the ongoing stakeholder engagements.”

There has been public outburst and controversy over the renaming of the Ghana film industry as Blackstar Films by some industry players, with some taking a step further over the issue—they have petitioned the sector Minister.

Below is the statement from the Ministry

SUSPENSION OF NEWLY SELECTED BRAND NAME FOR FILM INDUSTRY

The Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Honourable Dr Ibrahim Mohammed Awal has directed that the usage of the newly selected brand name for Ghana's film industry; 'Blackstar Films', be put on hold pending the outcome of the ongoing stakeholder engagements.

Some film Industry players who are displeased with the selection of the brand name have petitioned the Sector Minister.

The office of the Honourable Minister is engaging the National Film Authority (NFA) and the aggrieved parties over the matter.

As we await the outcome of the stakeholder engagements, it is hereby directed that the brand name be put on hold with immediate effect. The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture led by the able Honourable Awal Mohammed assures Ghanaians that it is focused on developing the film industry in unity and will avoid any move that will create a divided front.

Thank You.