The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the revival and growth of the Kumawood film industry.
The minister emphasize the need for unity among stakeholders in the creative act industry to propel Ghana’s creative arts sector forward.
Speaking at a high-level engagement with Kumawood actors and industry players in Kumasi, Dr. Amoakohene underscored the crucial role Kumawood plays in promoting Ashanti culture and Ghanaian heritage on the global stage.
He urged actors and filmmakers to put aside political differences and work collectively towards revitalizing the industry.
“Kumawood has the power to showcase our rich culture to the world, and it is important that we remain united and focused on the growth of the industry rather than political affiliations. The priority should be the welfare of the industry and its sustainability,” he stated.
The engagement, which aimed to strengthen collaboration between the government and the creative arts sector, provided a platform for industry players to share their perspectives, challenges, and expectations.
Dr. Amoakohene expressed concerns about the underutilization of Ashanti Region’s tourism and creative arts potential, including waterfalls, craft villages, and other cultural attractions.
He lamented the fact that many Ghanaians travel long distances to experience such sites while local gems remain largely undiscovered.
He also stressed the importance of training the next generation of filmmakers and called for greater collaboration between the industry and the government, particularly through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, to provide the necessary equipment and logistics for skill development.
Representatives of the Kumawood industry, including veteran filmmaker Rev. Samuel Nyamekye of Miracle Films and actor Paul Agyei, popularly known as Pulgee, called on the minister to advocate for government intervention in key areas.
The actors called the government to Completion of the Creative Arts School at Kwadaso, which was initiated by the previous NPP administration, to enhance professional training in filmmaking.
The complained taxes on premiering movie screenings, scholarship scheme for industry players to enhance skills development.
The filmmaker also wants the government to facilitate recognition of their letters for visa applications by embassies in the country to facilitate international collaborations among others.
The industry representatives expressed confidence in President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to the creative arts sector and appealed for direct government support to sustain Kumawood’s vibrancy.
Dr. Amoakohene assured the industry of the government’s willingness to explore avenues for support and reaffirmed his commitment to engaging relevant authorities to address their concerns.
“We recognize the immense contributions of Kumawood to our culture and economy, and I assure you that the government will work with you to find sustainable solutions that will keep the industry thriving,” he added.
As the discussion continues, stakeholders remain hopeful that this renewed commitment from the regional minister will mark the beginning of a new era for Kumawood, positioning it as a dominant force in Africa’s creative arts industry.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
