National Film Dialogue: Can Ghana’s cinema rise again and drive tourism?

Last Tuesday, the Cedi Conference Hall at the Legon campus of the University of Ghana hosted the maiden National Film Dialogue since the new management and board took over. 

It was a significant gathering that brought together filmmakers, producers, actors, distributors and a wide range of stakeholders to deliberate on how to revive the fortunes of Ghana’s struggling film industry. 

For an industry that once captured the imagination of audiences across Africa but has, in recent years, lost its shine, this dialogue could not have come at a better time.

The sheer number of film people present underscored the hunger for change.

Seasoned actors such as Fred Amugi and Mikki Osei-Berko were there, alongside contemporary talents like Martha Ankomah, Gloria Sarfo, Harold Amenyah, Majid Michel, Chris Attoh, Salma Mumin and Lil Win. 

Producers and cross-industry figures, including Selassie Ibrahim and Akumaa Mama Zimbi, also participated.

Their presence signalled confidence that the new leadership of the National Film Authority can deliver meaningful change, and a willingness to lend their voices to shape the sector’s future.

Commending foresight, noting gaps

The National Film Authority deserves commendation for initiating this dialogue under the leadership of its Executive Director, Kafui Danku-Pitcher.

It reflects foresight and a recognition that the industry cannot progress without a broad and honest conversation about its state and future.

At the same time, the organisation of the event could have been tighter and more inclusive, which would have enriched the discussions further.

Still, this maiden effort should be seen as a starting point, not an end.

What matters most now is follow-through – clear timelines, practical steps and transparent communication with stakeholders.

Role of government

It was, however, disappointing that the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts was not present.

If film is going to be a major driver of Ghana’s creative economy and tourism promotion, then leadership at the highest political level must be visible at such conversations. 

I understand that the Honourable Minister, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, had to take a very late rain check to attend to another pressing national issue and was represented by her deputy, Yussif Issaka Jajah.

I also noted that the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations was represented by the Deputy Minister, Mohammed Adam Sukparu.

The absence of the substantive ministers sent a mixed signal about government’s commitment, even though officials from the government and state institutions were present.

In my humble view, this was a missed opportunity to demonstrate greater commitment.

This is particularly important because the film sector is not just about creativity but about policy, investment and positioning.

With the right level of state support, film can become a multi-billion-dollar industry that contributes significantly to GDP and enhances tourism visibility.

Beyond another talk shop

One of the concerns that always comes up with such dialogues is whether they amount to much more than talk shops. Ghana has held numerous conferences, summits and workshops on the state of the arts, culture and film industry, but the sector has often seen little in the way of concrete outcomes.

What gave this particular dialogue added weight was the seriousness of the issues raised and the strategies outlined by the chairman of the NFA board, Ivan Quarshigah. His proposals reflected an understanding of both the structural gaps and the commercial realities of the industry.

The emphasis on a clear regulatory framework, the need to strengthen distribution and the call for a more deliberate connection between film and national development were especially noteworthy.

Regulation, pitfalls

One area of concern that came up strongly was the legal and regulatory framework.

Ghana’s film law provides for a classification regime that, if not carefully managed, could end up stifling creativity rather than protecting audiences. 

While content classification is important, especially in protecting children and maintaining cultural standards, an overly rigid or bureaucratic system could drive filmmakers away or limit the very innovation the industry needs to thrive.

Finding a balance between regulation and creative freedom will, therefore, be critical if Ghana’s film industry is to flourish.

The law must support growth, not inhibit it.

Strategies for growth

Among the strategies outlined by Ivan Quarshigah and other speakers were efforts to streamline distribution, strengthen cinema infrastructure and leverage digital platforms. While the idea of a national content streaming service was proposed, its practicality remains debatable.

Competing with established global platforms like Netflix or even regional ones like Showmax may not be realistic at this stage.

A more sustainable approach may be to create partnerships that ensure Ghanaian films have access to these existing platforms, while simultaneously strengthening local cinema halls and community-based screenings.

Film and tourism

For Ghana, the opportunity is clear. Film can become one of the most powerful tools in driving tourism. Movies showcase destinations, culture, food, fashion and music in ways that traditional advertising cannot.

Imagine the global exposure if Ghanaian films highlighting the Cape Coast Castle, Mole National Park, Makola Market or the vibrant nightlife of Accra found their way onto international screens.

Countries like New Zealand, with The Lord of the Rings, and South Korea, with Crash Landing on You and Squid Game, have demonstrated how film can transform a nation’s tourism fortunes.

Ghana, with its rich history and vibrant culture, has all the raw material needed to tell compelling stories that attract visitors.

The way forward

If Ghana is serious about positioning film as a growth sector within the creative economy and as a vehicle to promote tourism, then three things are essential. First, government must show commitment at the highest level.

Second, regulation must enable rather than stifle growth. Third, industry stakeholders must continue to engage constructively and push for accountability.

The National Film Dialogue was an important moment, but it must not be allowed to fade into memory as just another talk shop.

With the energy of the creative community, the strategies already outlined, and the natural partnership between film and tourism, Ghana has a real chance to revitalise its film industry and tell its stories to the world.