Ghana’s film industry was once a strong force in West Africa, with its movies even outselling Nigerian productions in some markets. According to veteran filmmaker Socrate Safo, the golden years of Ghanaian cinema saw huge sales, especially in the 2000s, when films could sell thousands of copies at Opera Square and other outlets. At the time, local actors and producers were household names, and Ghanaian films travelled across the region with great success.
However, Safo believes several challenges have since weakened the industry and made entertainment returns highly uncertain. One of the biggest problems, he explains, was the decision to sell films cheaply to television stations. Once movies became widely available on free-to-air TV, audiences lost interest in buying original copies. This practice, combined with piracy, caused a major collapse in revenue.
Another issue is the lack of a proper distribution system. Unlike other industries with strong supply chains, Ghanaian filmmakers often relied on informal shopkeepers, which limited how far their work could reach. The decline of cinemas and interruptions caused by frequent power cuts also reduced opportunities for film lovers to watch new releases in a proper setting.
Safo further points out that weak structures in the industry have contributed to the decline. Many roles overlap, with producers, actors, and directors often doubling as marketers without any clear system of accountability. This, he says, has affected both quality and professionalism.
He also criticises the lack of training and orientation for many who entered the sector, noting that poor business knowledge has scared off potential investors. In his view, unnecessary criticism and distractions have also made it harder for filmmakers to stay focused on audience needs.
Despite these difficulties, Safo insists the industry is not dead. He believes Ghanaian films can rise again if stakeholders work together, address piracy, invest in proper distribution, and put quality storytelling at the centre. His reflections are a reminder that while Ghana once competed strongly with Nollywood, the future of its cinema depends on rebuilding structures that guarantee both creativity and returns.
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