Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has called for higher professional standards and sustained investment in Africa’s film industry, warning that the continent’s stories will struggle to compete globally without strategic positioning and quality production.
Speaking at the maiden Regal Film Festival and Awards (REFFA) 2025 in Accra, the Vice President said African narratives must be developed with intention and delivered at a standard that meets international expectations, while remaining rooted in cultural authenticity.
“Our stories are rich, authentic, and powerful. But they must be told with the excellence they deserve if we are to claim our rightful place in the global film industry,” she said.
She urged filmmakers to prioritise depth, technical quality and professionalism, stressing that storytelling alone is not sufficient in an increasingly competitive global content market. The Vice President also called on investors and industry stakeholders to adopt a long-term approach to financing film projects, noting that the sector has the potential to generate employment, strengthen cultural diplomacy and contribute significantly to GDP growth.
REFFA 2025 brought together filmmakers and creatives from across Africa, featuring film screenings, masterclasses, panel discussions and networking sessions with international industry players. Organisers said the festival is designed to support emerging talent while expanding Africa’s visibility in the global film ecosystem.
The festival’s debut comes as Ghana seeks to deepen investment in its creative industries and position itself as a regional hub for film, culture and content production.
