National Film Awards Coming Soon

The National Film Authority (NFA) has announced plans to launch a national film awards scheme to recognize excellence in Ghana’s film industry and strengthen its global presence.

The initiative, according to the governing board chairman, Mr. Ivan Quashigah, will complement existing private awards but serve as the official national platform to celebrate talent and creativity.

Speaking on Hitz FM’s Daybreak Hitz show with Kwame Dadzie and Doreen Avio on September 21st 2025, Mr. Quashigah explained that national recognition is crucial to boosting interest in Ghanaian films.

“Award shows provide recognition in the industry. When we put one together at the national level, it throws light on the winners and uplifts the entire industry, there are a couple of them that are there but we need to have a national one,” he said.

He also urged that film production is capital intensive, and collaboration helps reduce the burden on each player. He added that Ghana’s industry must begin embracing joint efforts, pointing to Hollywood where several production houses often partner on project

“Film is capital intensive so when you collaborate it lessen the burden on each of the players. We need to start doing collaborative work, if you watch Hollywood films, there are number of production houses that are partnering”, he highlighted

This announcement follows the NFA’s maiden National Film Dialogue, held on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Cedi Conference Centre, University of Ghana. The event, themed “Accelerating Industry Development”, brought together filmmakers, government officials, and stakeholders to discuss practical solutions for challenges facing the sector.

NFA Executive Secretary, Kafui Danku-Pitcher, opened the event by acknowledging the film industry’s rich talent and potential, while also pointing out the systemic challenges it faces. She stressed the importance of collaboration among government, the private sector, investors, filmmakers, and storytellers to create a stronger future for the industry.

During the dialogue, NFA leaders outlined a wide range of initiatives aimed at expanding Ghana’s film audience and market. These include the “1% Population Drive” to reach at least 1% of Ghanaians with local films, mobile cinemas, school film clubs, cinema-in-the-park events, and partnerships for regional cinema expansion. Plans are also underway to dub films into French and local languages to widen accessibility.

Mr. Quashigah stressed that film is not only entertainment but also a tool for cultural preservation, job creation, and tourism promotion. He called for stronger corporate sponsorships, tax incentives, and international collaborations to make Ghana’s film industry globally competitive.

“Reaching just 1% of our population with local film content could generate significant revenue and sustain the industry,” he noted.

Draft policies on tax credits and incentives, he added, are being prepared for Cabinet approval.

The dialogue also featured contributions from the Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Hon. Yussif Issaka Jajah, who represented the sector minister. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to positioning the creative industry as a driver of economic transformation.

“Film is a mirror of society, a vessel of our heritage, and a bridge to the world. Our stories deserve to be told across Africa and beyond,” he said.

He outlined government’s priorities for the film sector, including job creation, attracting foreign investment, boosting tourism, and strengthening national identity. He also called for legislative support and investment in infrastructure to make Ghana a competitive film production hub in Africa.

About NFA

As the statutory body regulating film production and exhibition, the NFA plays a critical role in enforcing standards, licensing film venues, managing the Film Development Fund, and protecting copyright and royalties. Established under the Development and Classification of Film Act, 2016 (Act 935), its mission is to evolve a dynamic, self-sustaining, and culturally conscious film industry.

With the introduction of a national award scheme and the rollout of new initiatives, the NFA is positioning itself as a catalyst for the revival and growth of Ghana’s film industry, one that preserves cultural heritage while creating jobs and showcasing Ghana to the world.