By Hafsa Obeng, GNA
Accra, Sept. 9, GNA – A major film collaboration between Sparrow Productions and Old Film Productions, dubbed the ‘70 Slate Initiative,’ has been launched in Accra, to showcase Ghana’s history, culture, identity and creativity ahead of the country’s 70th Independence Anniversary.
The initiative will see the two production houses combine their resources, creative talents and expertise to produce three major films for audiences in Ghana and internationally.
Speaking at the launch on behalf of Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Dr Richardson Commey Fio, her Special Aide, described the initiative as more than a cinematic project, but a cultural statement and an opportunity for Ghanaians to reflect on their history, identity and creative potential.
He commended the producers and filmmakers for their vision and courage to undertake a project of such scale, saying their commitment demonstrated what Ghanaian creatives could achieve through excellence and compelling storytelling.
Dr Commey Fio said film remained a powerful tool for preserving history, shaping identity and inspiring future generations, particularly as Ghana prepared to mark 70 years of independence.
It also created employment for actors and other creative professionals, supported local businesses, promoted tourism and provided a platform for Ghanaian culture to reach audiences across the world, he said.
“Simply put, when Ghanaian stories travel, Ghana travels with them,” he said.
Dr Commey Fio said the Ministry remained committed to strengthening the creative economy through policies and initiatives aimed at creating jobs and promoting economic growth.
He urged filmmakers to pursue excellence and expressed optimism that the 70 Slate Initiative would contribute to uplifting Ghanaian cinema and strengthening cultural confidence.
He also called on the media and other stakeholders to support the initiative and other creative industry projects, saying collective commitment was critical to the growth of the sector.
Mr Kofi Okyere Darko, the Director of Diaspora Affairs at the Presidency, commended Sparrow Productions and its founder, Ms Shirley Frimpong-Manso, for her contribution to Ghana’s creative industry.
He expressed pride in the growth of Sparrow Productions and urged stakeholders to honour pioneers of the creative industry while they were still alive.
Mr Darko said discussions were ongoing on collaborations for Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary, including initiatives to take Ghanaian productions to the Diaspora and showcase the country’s culture internationally.
He said the anniversary presented an opportunity for a vibrant celebration that would require cooperation among players in the creative sector.
Ms Kafui Danku-Pitcher, the Executive Secretary of the National Film Authority (NFA), described the partnership between Sparrow Productions and Old Film Productions as the type of strategic collaboration needed to build a sustainable Ghanaian film industry.
She said combining resources, talent and vision would enable producers to share risks, strengthen creative capacity and produce films capable of competing both locally and internationally.
Ms Danku-Pitcher said the three productions would create opportunities for actors, technical crew and other professionals, while providing young Ghanaian creatives with practical experience and mentorship.
She noted that the NFA was supporting the development of the industry through the GH¢20 million Film Development Fund, which was aimed at enhancing film production and training.
She assured filmmakers and other stakeholders of the Authority’s continued support to enable Ghanaian films and talents to gain greater recognition.
The 70 Slate Initiative forms part of efforts to use cinema to tell authentic Ghanaian stories, celebrate the country’s heritage and create opportunities within the creative economy.
The initiative is also expected to foster collaboration among industry players and enhance the visibility of Ghanaian filmmaking across Africa and the international community as the country prepares to celebrate its 70th Independence Anniversary.
GNA
Edited by Christabel Addo
Reporter: Hafsa Obeng
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