At a time when the global film landscape is evolving rapidly, where filmmaking techniques are advancing and box offices are recording massive returns, Ghana continues to circle the same conversation it has had for years: Funding.
It is the most cited problem in the industry. And rightly so. Financing remains a major hurdle, alongside distribution. But over time, funding has become more than just a challenge, it has become a comfortable explanation.
The truth is, funding is not easy anywhere in the world. Even in established industries like Hollywood, filmmakers fight for funding every single day. Projects stall. Scripts are rejected. Investors hesitate. The difference, however, is clear. In those industries, funding is controlled.
Expecting government to solve this challenge may not be the most practical path forward. Across the world, national budgets are structured around priorities such as the economy, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
If financial resources are limited, then human resources must take centre stage. Ghana is not short of talent. From writers to actors, directors to cinematographers, producers to editors, the industry is filled with individuals capable of producing meaningful and competitive work. Yet one issue continues to undermine that potential, that is disunity.
Collaboration remains one of the most underutilised tools in the industry, and without it, even the most talented individuals will struggle to create at scale. Veteran Ghanaian actor Fred Amugi captured this reality succinctly in a recent interview on GHOne TV:
“Funding is not the problem, disunity is. If we can unite as an industry, the money will come.”
This is a strong statement, that is also revealing. Because beyond the conversations about funding lies a deeper question, whether the industry is structured, aligned, and intentional enough to attract and sustain investment.
Credit: starrfm.com.gh
