Veteran Ghanaian filmmaker Kwaw Paintsil Ansah has called for sustained investment, transparency, and national commitment to transform Ghana’s film industry into a globally competitive creative economy powerhouse.
Speaking at the official launch of the National Film Development Fund organized by the National Film Authority, the celebrated filmmaker described the initiative as a long-awaited breakthrough for Ghanaian filmmakers who have struggled for decades with inadequate financing, poor infrastructure, limited distribution, piracy, and inconsistent investment support.
“It is both an honor to stand before you today as we officially launch the Film Development Fund a development many of us in the Ghanaian film industry have long advocated and waited for over several decades,” he said.
Kwaw Ansah praised the Government of Ghana, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, and the National Film Authority for establishing the fund and allocating GH¢20 million as seed capital through the Ministry of Finance.
According to him, the move signals confidence in the future of Ghana’s creative economy and provides a strong foundation for industry growth.
However, the veteran filmmaker stressed that government support alone would not be enough to build a thriving film sector capable of competing internationally.
“The needs of the industry are far greater than what any initial seed allocation alone can address,” he stated. “If we truly desire to build a globally competitive film industry capable of attracting investment, creating employment, supporting tourism, and generating economic returns, then this fund must continue to grow significantly over time.”
He urged private sector institutions, financial organizations, telecommunications companies, the Ghanaian diaspora, and the general public to actively contribute to the growth of the industry.
Kwaw Ansah emphasized that film should not be viewed merely as entertainment but as a powerful economic and cultural tool capable of shaping national identity, tourism, and international influence.
“Globally, film has become a major economic force, and countries that have invested intentionally in their audiovisual industries are benefiting immensely through exports, tourism, job creation, and international influence. Ghana must not be left behind,” he added.
Addressing members of the newly inaugurated Film Development Fund Management Committee, Kwaw Ansah urged them to operate with transparency, accountability, fairness, and long-term vision.
“You carry responsibility not only to manage a fund but to help shape the future of Ghana’s creative economy,” he noted.
