James Gardiner insists Ghana can conquer the global box office despite a crippling lack of resources

The National Film Authority is refusing to let the cameras stop rolling on Ghana’s cinematic ambitions. James Gardiner, the Deputy CEO of the NFA, recently addressed the growing frustration surrounding the slow evolution of the local film landscape, maintaining that the organization is tirelessly working behind the scenes to build a sustainable future for creators.

During a recent screening of the film Virgin on the Throne, Gardiner took a direct approach to the skepticism voiced by industry insiders. He admitted that while the path to a world class industry is undeniably difficult, the progress is both real and ongoing.

His comments serve as a direct response to filmmakers and stakeholders who have long demanded more robust institutional support and better distribution networks to get Ghanaian stories onto international screens.

Funding the Vision

To back up these claims of progress, Gardiner pointed to the recent distribution of 20 million Ghanaian Cedis specifically earmarked for the film sector. This financial injection is seen as a vital lifeline for a community hungry for higher production values.

Furthermore, Gardiner revealed that the highly anticipated National Film Fund is nearing its official launch, which is expected to provide a more permanent financial backbone for the industry.

While the creative arts space in Ghana continues to push for faster reforms and deeper pockets, the NFA remains adamant that the foundation for a global powerhouse is currently being laid, one frame at a time.