Hon. Habib Iddrisu Under Fire for Disparaging Ghana’s Movie Industry

The Film Directors Guild of Ghana (FDGG) has taken umbrage with Hon. Habib Iddrisu, the First Deputy Minority Whip of Ghana’s Parliament, over his remarks suggesting that the movie industry is not a serious profession.

During the vetting of Hon. John Dumelo, the Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture designate, on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, Hon. Iddrisu advised Dumelo to be serious, implying that his background in the movie industry was not a serious pursuit.

The FDGG has swiftly condemned Hon. Iddrisu’s statement, labeling it “reckless” and “unfortunate.” In a strongly-worded statement, the guild emphasized that the movie industry is a significant contributor to Ghana’s economy, generating revenue and creating jobs.

Globally, the culture and creative industry generates $2.25 trillion annually, contributing 3% to the global GDP, and employing 30 million people, according to UNESCO’s 2021 report. In Ghana, the movie industry plays a crucial role in job creation, tourism, and foreign exchange earnings.

The FDGG has demanded a retraction of Hon. Iddrisu’s statement and an unqualified apology for his “disrespectful and reckless” comments. The guild’s National President, Richard Yaw Boateng, and Director of Communications, Francis Ayaga, expressed disappointment in Hon. Iddrisu’s lack of understanding of the movie industry’s significance.

This development has sparked outrage within Ghana’s movie industry, with many calling for Hon. Iddrisu to educate himself on the sector’s contributions to the economy. George Quaye, a renowned industry expert, has also expressed disappointment in Hon. Dumelo’s response to Hon. Iddrisu’s comment, calling for more assertive advocacy for the industry ¹.

As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Hon. Iddrisu will retract his statement and apologize to the movie industry. One thing is certain, however: the FDGG will continue to champion the interests of Ghana’s movie industry, ensuring that its contributions to the economy are recognized and respected.