The Issue
PETITION TO SAFEGUARD GHANA’S FILM INDUSTRY: CALL FOR COMPETENT LEADERSHIP AT THE NATIONAL FILM AUTHORITY
To His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana,
In a world where mediocrity is rewarded, the promotion of incompetence is a silent betrayal of progress. The recent appointments at the National Film Authority (NFA) represent a critical misstep that threatens to undermine the future of Ghana’s film industry.
The appointment of James Gardiner as Head of the NFA was met with skepticism by industry professionals. However, the subsequent selection of Kafui Danku as CEO is a decision that has sent shockwaves through the creative community, posing an existential threat to an already fragile sector. These appointments are not just unfortunate; they are symptomatic of a broader failure to recognize the importance of informed leadership in an industry that holds the potential to be a major economic and cultural driver for Ghana.
The Role of the NFA and the Need for Competence
The NFA is, at its core, a film commission responsible for:
- Facilitating access to resources such as location scouting, permits, and local talent.
- Providing logistical and financial incentives
- Ensuring compliance with local and international film regulations
- Promoting Ghana as a premier filming destination
Neither Kafui Danku nor James Gardiner possesses the industry experience or expertise required to lead such a vital institution. Their backgrounds, limited to low-budget productions and social media branding, fall woefully short of the strategic vision needed to navigate Ghana’s film sector toward growth.
The Decline of Ghana’s Film Industry
Ghana’s once-thriving film sector is now at a crossroads. While global streaming giants like Netflix and Prime Video are pulling out of Africa and local broadcasters like DSTV are scaling back budgets, Ghana’s film industry remains stagnant. Akwaaba TV is an underutilized asset, and the nation’s international film presence has dwindled, while South Africa has strategically positioned itself to absorb the film revenues that could have fueled Ghana’s industry.
Ghana’s theatre community stays strong thanks to George Quaye, Naa Ashorkor, Uncle Ebow White, and Chief Moomen. Kumawood keeps going despite many challenges, keeping local films alive. Shirley Frimpong-Manso is working hard to save Ghana’s cinema industry, while others, like Leila Djansi, have turned to Hollywood for more opportunities..
A Legacy in Jeopardy
If the new administration is committed to a true reset of Ghana, then the film industry must not be overlooked. The appointment of an underqualified CEO signals a departure from excellence, particularly when contrasted with the legacy of Juliet Yaa Asantewaa Asante, a Harvard-trained industry leader who brought groundbreaking initiatives to the NFA and successfully brokered distribution deals with major players like MTN.
Africa’s film sector has the potential to generate over $20 billion annually, according to UNESCO, yet this potential cannot be realized under leadership that lacks the expertise to implement key industry mechanisms such as tax incentives, copyright laws, credit negotiation, and creative commons licenses—critical tools for a thriving film industry.
A Call for Strategic Leadership
We, the undersigned members of the Association of Ghanaian Creatives, urge the government to appoint qualified, visionary leadership at the NFA. The institution must be helmed by a technocrat with deep industry knowledge, supported by a board of experienced creative professionals who can steer the sector toward revitalization and global competitiveness.
The following renowned professionals have demonstrated the leadership and industry experience required to guide the NFA effectively:
- George Bosompin (National Film Institute, GAFTA)
2. Jim Awindor (Film and television strategist)
3. Akofa Edjeani Asiedu (veteran filmmaker and policy maker)
4. Professor Linus Abraham (Media and communication expert)
5. Akosua Abdallah (Film education and policy expert)
6. Ms. Nicole Amarteifio (Pioneering filmmaker and industry advocate)
7. Danny Damah (Filmmaker)
8. Ken Fiati (film Administrator)
9. Professor Evans Kumi (lecturer)
10. Zakaria Abdulai
We call upon President Mahama to ensure that Ghana’s film industry is led by individuals capable of shaping its future, not by figures with no substantive industry expertise.
The time to act is now. Ghana’s creative community will not stand by and watch the death of an industry that has the power to shape culture, create jobs, and generate billions in revenue. We demand accountability, competence, and a leadership that respects the craft and business of filmmaking.
