Ghana’s Film Industry Revival: New NFA Board Targets 1% Population Participation
The newly inaugurated Governing Board of Ghana’s National Film Authority (NFA) has announced an ambitious and transformative plan aimed at revitalizing the country’s film sector by actively engaging at least 1% of the nation’s population. This strategy, unveiled at the Board’s first official meeting on August 19, 2025, sets a clear vision to overcome long-standing challenges in distribution and exhibition, which have historically hindered the growth and reach of Ghanaian cinema.
Chairman of the NFA Board, Ivan Quashigah, stressed that the success of the industry’s revival depends heavily on creating effective and accessible channels for Ghanaian films to reach audiences across the country. “Distribution and exhibition are the lifeblood of any thriving film industry,” Quashigah said. “We must rebuild public trust in local content by ensuring it is easily available and enjoyed by citizens everywhere. Our goal is not just to entertain but to position Ghana as a leading film hub on the African continent.”
With Ghana’s population currently estimated at around 34.7 million, the Board’s target to engage 1% equates to approximately 347,000 people. Quashigah emphasized that reaching this level of consistent audience engagement would have a ripple effect across the entire film value chain—from producers and distributors to investors and cinema operators—ultimately stimulating economic growth within the creative sector.
The meeting also highlighted the NFA’s commitment to upholding strong regulatory standards, fostering industry development, and promoting collaboration with both local and international partners. The Authority intends to work closely with government ministries, film guilds, private sector stakeholders, and global institutions to ensure the Ghanaian film industry is sustainable and globally competitive.
Among the distinguished attendees at the inaugural Board meeting were key figures representing various facets of Ghana’s film ecosystem. Executive Secretary Kafui Danku-Pitcher and Deputy Executive Secretary James Gardiner were present alongside Mabel Cudjoe from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, and Emmanuel Ofori from the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations. The gathering also featured industry veterans such as Dr. Rebecca Ohene-Asah of the Institute of Film and Television at UNIMAC, Augustine Abbey from the Film Producers Association of Ghana, George Bosompim representing the Ghana Academy of Film and Television Arts, and Aseye Tamakloe from Women in Film and Television. Representatives from rights management, distribution, marketing, and technical crews—including Zakaria Abdulai, Rukiyatu Naa Ayikaley Ankrah, Alejandro Peterson Davids White-Cross, and Kofi Adinkra—also contributed to the discussions.
The Board emphasized that addressing the persistent challenges of film distribution and exhibition is crucial for the sector’s resurgence. For years, many Ghanaian films have struggled to secure wide theatrical release or reach audiences beyond urban centers due to inadequate infrastructure and limited market access. By prioritizing the development of a robust and inclusive distribution network and improving exhibition facilities nationwide, the NFA aims to make local films accessible to a broader and more diverse audience.
Furthermore, the NFA plans to leverage partnerships with stakeholders to attract investment and enhance the business climate for filmmakers. This includes creating incentives for cinema operators to showcase Ghanaian content and encouraging private sector involvement in developing state-of-the-art screening venues.
Beyond economic benefits, the Board highlighted the cultural significance of a thriving film industry. “Films are powerful tools for storytelling and cultural expression,” Quashigah noted. “By reviving the Ghanaian film industry, we strengthen our cultural identity, preserve our heritage, and project Ghana’s rich stories onto the global stage.”
The National Film Authority has therefore called on industry players, investors, and partners to unite behind this vision and collaborate in building a dynamic film ecosystem. The Board’s plan aims not only to grow the industry domestically but also to position Ghana as a recognized film production and distribution center within Africa and beyond.
In summary, the newly installed NFA Governing Board has set forth a bold and comprehensive agenda focused on revitalizing Ghana’s film industry by targeting sustained engagement from at least 1% of the population. Through a strategic focus on strengthening distribution and exhibition, fostering partnerships, and promoting regulatory excellence, the Board hopes to catalyze economic growth, enhance cultural identity, and elevate Ghana’s status on the global film map.
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