Ghana's Creative Industry Must Collaborate to Compete Globally, Tourism Minister Says

Ghana's creative industry stands at a crossroads where individual brilliance alone will no longer suffice. Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Minister Dzifa Gomashie has issued a clarion call for Ghanaian creatives to abandon isolated efforts and embrace strategic collaborations that pool talent, resources and expertise to compete on the global stage.

The minister's message came during the launch of The 70 Slate, an ambitious three-film collaboration between Sparrow Productions and OldFilm Productions at Labadi Beach Hotel on Tuesday, September 8. The initiative serves as a tangible blueprint for what Ghanaian creatives can achieve when they work towards a common vision, demonstrating that collective effort strengthens the entire creative economy.

The 70 Slate: A Vision for Ghana at 70

The 70 Slate comprises three feature films scheduled for staggered release over the next eighteen months. The Return of Makunse is expected in December 2026, followed by Nkrumah's Red, Gold and Green in July 2027, and I Told You So in December 2027. Beyond entertainment, these films serve a deeper cultural purpose—examining Ghana's historical journey, celebrating heritage and reimagining the nation's trajectory as it approaches and reflects on seven decades of independence.

The project aims to revive cinema culture across Ghana whilst attracting diaspora investment and tourism. By positioning Ghana as a major creative force within Africa's evolving film landscape, The 70 Slate represents the kind of strategic thinking that can elevate the entire sector.

Economic and Social Impact of Film Collaboration

Minister Gomashie emphasised that the film industry's reach extends far beyond entertainment. The sector preserves national history, shapes cultural identity, inspires younger generations and creates sustainable employment across multiple professions. From actors and directors to cinematographers, editors, sound engineers and costume designers, film production generates jobs throughout the creative ecosystem whilst stimulating local businesses and tourism revenue.

The National Film Authority (NFA) has backed this vision with concrete support. CEO Kafui Danku noted that the NFA has already committed GH¢20 million towards a film development fund supporting production, distribution, cinema infrastructure and professional training. The authority stands ready to facilitate The 70 Slate through regulatory clarity, content classification and international visibility platforms.

Why It Matters for Ghana

Ghana's creative industries represent untapped potential for economic growth and continental leadership. Whilst Nigeria's Nollywood has dominated West African film discourse, Ghana possesses the talent, stories and cultural richness to establish itself as a premier creative hub. However, this requires the coordinated effort that Gomashie advocates.

The collaboration between Sparrow Productions and OldFilm Productions signals a shift in industry mindset. Rather than competing for limited local resources, Ghanaian creatives are recognising that shared investment in quality content benefits the entire sector. This approach mirrors successful creative economies globally, where industry players collaborate on ambitious projects that elevate standards and attract international attention and investment.

Furthermore, as Ghana approaches its seventieth anniversary, cultural narratives matter. These films offer opportunities for honest national introspection—examining where Ghana originated, its current position and aspirations for the future. Such storytelling strengthens national cohesion whilst presenting authentic Ghanaian perspectives to global audiences, countering external stereotypes and reshaping Ghana's international image.

The minister's call for collective action also aligns with broader ECOWAS creative economy initiatives, positioning Ghana competitively within the regional landscape and attracting diaspora engagement from the substantial Ghanaian communities across Europe, North America and beyond.