Ghana’s Film Revival May Depend on the Talent Behind the Camera — Jackie Appiah

Accra, Ghana — October 7, 2026: Ghanaian actress Jackie Appiah has called for a stronger focus on the professionals working behind the scenes as the country seeks to rebuild its film industry.

Speaking at the Pete Edochie Legacy Project, Appiah said Ghana could take important lessons from Nigeria’s Nollywood, particularly its ability to create opportunities for a broad network of creative professionals beyond actors.

According to the actress, Nollywood’s strength lies partly in the depth of its production ecosystem. She pointed to scriptwriters, camera operators, costume designers and other technical and creative workers whose contributions help keep productions running.

“It’s not just about being in front of the camera,” Appiah said, stressing the importance of creating jobs and opportunities behind the scenes.

She encouraged young Ghanaians with filmmaking skills not to remain on the sidelines. Writers, cinematographers, costume professionals and other creatives, she said, should actively approach producers, present their ideas and seek opportunities to contribute to productions.

A changing Ghanaian film industry

Ghana’s movie industry has experienced a significant decline from the period when locally produced films were released at a much higher frequency. Appiah acknowledged that production levels are no longer what they once were, but expressed optimism that the sector is gradually recovering.

She called for more producers and investors to support the industry and help create an environment where creative professionals can build sustainable careers.

Her comments come as Ghana’s film sector continues to grapple with questions around investment, production capacity, distribution and the development of professional talent.

What Ghana can learn from Nollywood

Appiah’s argument places the spotlight on an aspect of filmmaking that is sometimes overshadowed by actors and celebrities.

A successful film production depends on a wide range of professionals, including writers, directors, cinematographers, editors, costume designers, makeup artists, sound engineers, producers and production managers.

Nigeria’s film industry has developed a large ecosystem around these roles, helping create opportunities beyond acting. Appiah believes Ghana can strengthen its own industry by giving similar attention to the people working away from the screen.

The actress therefore urged young creatives to make their skills visible rather than waiting for opportunities to come to them.

“If you’re there and you’re talented; you know how to write scripts, you are a creative camera person, costumier, don’t hide. Look for a producer and share your ideas,” she said.

Investment remains crucial

While developing behind-the-scenes talent could strengthen Ghana’s production base, Appiah also highlighted the need for greater investment.

More producers, investors and creative professionals, she suggested, must work together to increase production and create more opportunities throughout the industry.

Her comments offer a broader vision of recovery: rather than focusing exclusively on finding the next major actor, Ghana could rebuild its film industry by developing the entire chain of professionals needed to make, market and distribute films.

For Appiah, the revival of Ghanaian cinema will ultimately require more people willing to invest their skills, ideas and resources into the sector.