The National Film Authority’s National Film Dialogue which happened yesterday at the Cedis Conference Center, University Of Ghana, Accra brought together industry stakeholders to discuss strategies for reviving Ghana’s film industry.
Dr. Frank Amoakohene, Ashanti Regional Minister, delivered a thought-provoking speech highlighting a pressing concern: young people’s waning interest in indigenous films and creative works.
Dr. Amoakohene lamented that many Senior High School (SHS) students are losing touch with local content, threatening Ghana’s cultural identity. He emphasized the need for proactive measures to rekindle their interest in Ghanaian films.
“Most of the young ones, especially at the SHS level going down, they are losing touch with our local contents. So the film in school, I think that is one area we should put more emphasis on,” Dr. Amoakohene stated.
He proposed offering SHS students free access to Ghanaian films, believing early exposure can foster lifelong appreciation. This approach could create a loyal audience base, crucial for the industry’s growth.
“And instead of letting them pay at that level, we can offer it for them for free so that they will be addicted to the local content. Once they get to the university level where they are able to, at least able to afford the GH¢20, the GH¢50 we can change them over there because they are already addicted to our local content,” he suggested.
This initiative can Preserve Ghana’s cultural heritage, Encourage local content and creativity and boost the Economy.
Dr. Amoakohene assured stakeholders of his region’s full support for the creative sector. “As a regional minister, I want to assure you that our work is such that you have to make sure all sectors of your region flourish and that includes the creative sector. I want to assure all stakeholders that you have our fullest support as a region,” he stated.
By working together, Ghanaian films can continue to thrive and entertain audiences for generations.
His call to action emphasizes the need for collective effort to preserve Ghana’s cultural heritage.
Story Written By Biney Yakubu | Kobby Kyei News
