Actress Juliet Ibrahim has identified a lack of technical expertise and limited market size as some of the major challenges facing Ghana’s film industry.
Speaking in an interview on TV3 Ghana, the actress explained that although Ghana once played a key role in shaping the West African film space, other countries have since overtaken it.
According to her, the industry’s growth has been affected by limited technical know-how and the relatively small population of Ghana compared to other countries with thriving film industries.
“Apparently, we were big; they came to learn from us, and then they became bigger,” she said.
Juliet noted that countries like Nigeria and South Africa have gained an advantage because of their larger populations and stronger technical structures within the industry.
“Let’s face the truth. The population of Ghana is just the population of Lagos. Nigeria has a bigger population and South Africa has a bigger population,” she said.
She also praised the level of organisation and professionalism she has witnessed on film sets in South Africa, where she said production structures are clearly defined and each department performs specialised roles.
“When you go to a set, there’s a whole warehouse of costumes only. From the earrings you’re wearing to your nails, somebody is checking them out. Every department has a structure. They take the job seriously – it’s like being in Hollywood,” she explained.
The actress added that if proper systems are put in place and the creative economy receives stronger support from government and institutions, the industry could create more employment opportunities and generate significant revenue.
She further stressed the need for more investment in cinemas and accessible spaces where audiences can watch local films, noting that improving infrastructure and support for creatives would help strengthen the industry.
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