Entertainment
NFA committed to developing successful, competitive film industry

The National Film Authority (NFA) has reaffirmed its commitment to foster a thriving and globally competitive film industry at a high-level stakeholder engagement in Accra.
The meeting marked the first official interaction between the newly appointed leadership of the NFA and key industry players, providing an opportunity to discuss challenges, explore solutions, and strengthen collaboration.
The engagement was led by Mrs Kafui Danku-Pitcher, Executive Secretary of the NFA, and Mr James Timothy Gardiner, Deputy Executive Secretary.
The discussions focused on introducing the new leadership, gaining insights into the needs of the industry, and laying the groundwork for policies that will drive sustainable growth in Ghana’s film sector.
It drew representatives from major industry associations, including the Ghana Actors’ Guild (GAG), Film Producers’ Association of Ghana (FiPAG), Ghana Academy of Film and Television Arts (GAFTA), Women in Film and Television, Audio Visual Rights Society of Ghana (ARSOG), Film Crew Association of Ghana (FiCAG), Film Distributors and Marketers, Animators Association of Ghana (AAG), Film Directors Guild of Ghana (FDGG), Northern Region Filmmakers Association, and Silverbird Cinemas (Exhibitors), were in attendance.
Their participation underscored the significance of the dialogue and the industry’s collective interest in shaping its future.
During the discussions, stakeholders raised key challenges affecting the sector, including limited financing for film productions, weak copyright enforcement, inadequate capacity-building programmes, and the need for stronger legislative support.
Industry representatives emphasized the urgency to implement the Legislative Instrument (L.I.) to provide legal backing for film sector regulations, including tax incentives and funding structures.
Mr George Bosompem, PRO for GAFTA, highlighted that policy reforms must cater for these concerns to ensure a more structured and enabling environment for filmmakers.
Another pressing issue discussed was the need for a more streamlined structure for film guilds and associations.
Ken Fiati, Technical Committee Chairman of the Ghana Actors’ Guild (GAG), stressed the importance of creating a more unified industry with clear operational guidelines.
He also advocated regular training and capacity-building programmes to enhance the skills of actors, producers, and other industry professionals.
Addressing these concerns, Madam Kafui Danku-Pitcher reiterated the NFA’s commitment to open dialogue, strategic policymaking, and foster an environment where all industry players can thrive.
She emphasized that stakeholder engagement would remain a priority, ensuring that industry professionals were actively involved in shaping policies and initiatives.
Mr James Timothy Gardiner, Deputy Executive Secretary, assured stakeholders of the NFA’s dedication to advocating policies that address their needs.
Entertainment
Empress Gifty releases “Sunsum Ndwom”

GHANAIAN gospel heavyweight, Empress Gifty, has released a spirit-filled song titled “Sunsum Ndwom.”
The song, which is already making waves shortly after its release, is delivered in three parts, each carrying a powerful message.
The first part reflects on the mystery of Prophet Elijah, where people wondered who he was after he prayed and called down fire from heaven.
The second part centres on salvation, urging believers not to celebrate only power and miracles, but to celebrate the fact that their names are written in the Book of Life, because that is what lasts forever.
The third part celebrates the beauty of God’s healing power, a song originally composed by her late mother.
The gospel star is urging Ghanaians to stream the song on all platforms and encounter its powerful lyrics.
She also stressed the need to preserve Ghana’s traditional gospel sound, expressing hope that the new generation will embrace their heritage.
Empress Gifty further expressed appreciation to all stakeholders in the industry who have supported her career over the years.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
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Entertainment
Akumaa marks 18th Anniversary of MZF, supports thousands of widows

GHANAIAN media personality, Joyce Akumaa Dongotey-Padi, affectionately called Akumaa, has marked the 18th anniversary of her Mama Zimbi Foundation (MZF).
The event was held at the Broken Yoke Ministry International at Klagon in Accra.
Thousands of widows who benefited were taken through health education for good living, business enhancement, women empowerment and legal education, among others.
In addition, they were given water, cloth, rice, noodles, oil, Noko Fine Washing Powder and other toiletries.

Mrs Dongotey-Padi noted that there is land earmarked for vocational training and gari processing for those who are unemployed and would want to make ends meet.
Against that backdrop, she expressed appreciation to gospel musician Empress Gifty for supporting her with her Noko Fine Washing Powder and Verna Mineral Water.
According to her, it went a long way to put smiles on the faces of the widows.
Akumaa Mama Zimbi further said that if she looks back on how the journey started 18 years ago, she feels fulfilled in impacting thousands of lives.
According to her, this motivates her to do even more to put smiles on the faces of people.
The Mama Zimbi Foundation is an NGO committed to motivating, empowering and supporting widows and their children, as well as educating adolescents on their sexual and reproductive health.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
You can now read the Ghanaian Times and The Spectator newspapers from the comfort of your device via TimesNewsPlus.
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