Film Can Preserve Ghana’s History, Shape Identity -Tourism Ministry
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts has noted the power of film to preserve Ghana’s history, shape national identity and inspire future generations.
Dr Richardson Commey Fio, Special Aide to the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, stated that film was more than entertainment, describing it as a powerful medium through which Ghana’s history, culture and experiences could be documented and shared with audiences around the world.
He made these remarks on behalf of the Minister at the launch of the 70 Slate Initiative, a collaboration between Sparrow Productions and Old Film Productions to produce three films as part of efforts to promote Ghanaian stories and strengthen the country’s creative industry.
Dr Commey Fio said the initiative provided an opportunity for Ghanaians to reflect on their history, identity and creative potential, particularly as the country prepared to mark its 70th Independence Anniversary.
He lauded the producers and filmmakers for their vision and courage to undertake a project of such scale, saying their commitment demonstrated the potential of Ghanaian creatives to produce compelling stories through excellence and innovation.
According to him, films that authentically captured Ghanaian experiences could serve as a record of the country’s heritage for generations yet unborn while helping audiences both within and outside the country better understand Ghana’s history and culture.
He said the film industry also had the potential to contribute to economic development by creating employment for actors, filmmakers and other creative professionals, supporting local businesses and promoting tourism.
“Simply put, when Ghanaian stories travel, Ghana travels with them,” he said.
Dr Commey Fio said the Ministry remained committed to strengthening the creative economy through policies and initiatives aimed at creating jobs, promoting economic growth and providing opportunities for Ghanaian creatives.
He urged filmmakers to pursue excellence and tell authentic Ghanaian stories that would promote cultural confidence and project the country positively to the international community.
The Executive Secretary of the National Film Authority (NFA), Ms Kafui Danku-Pitcher, described the partnership between Sparrow Productions and Old Film Productions as the kind of collaboration required to build a sustainable Ghanaian film industry.
She said combining resources, talent and vision would enable producers to share risks, strengthen creative capacity and produce films capable of competing on both local and international markets.
Ms Danku-Pitcher said the three productions would create opportunities for actors, technical crew and other professionals, while giving young Ghanaian creatives practical experience and opportunities for mentorship.
She noted that the NFA was supporting the development of the industry through the GH¢20 million Film Development Fund, which was aimed at enhancing film production and training.
She assured filmmakers and other industry stakeholders of the Authority’s continued support to enable Ghanaian films and talents to gain greater recognition.
The 70 Slate Initiative forms part of broader efforts to use cinema to tell authentic Ghanaian stories, preserve the country’s heritage and create opportunities within the creative economy.
Irene Wirekoaa Osei, ISD
