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
Prophet Atarah opens new studio, launches Atarah Praise 2025

Prophet Joseph Atarah has launched his annual event aimed at bringing believers together in an atmosphere of worship and praise.
The theme for this edition is ‘Restoration’ with the belief that patrons would be restored in the face of their challenges.
The programme will be in two parts, with the first scheduled to take place in the United Kingdom at 5pm on May 11, at Pleasant Place Church.
The Ghana edition will take place at the forecourt of Believer’s Grace Crown Ministry International, Bond Square, Adenta Barrier, at 4pm on May 25.
Prophet Atarah has paraded Piesie Esther, Kofi Owusu Peprah, Nana Yaw Asare and Mavis Asante among others for the Ghana edition.
For the UK edition, patrons will enjoy performances from Kofi Owusu Peprah, Kobby Mantey, Emmanuel Smith, and Ern Ruthy.
Speaking at the launch, Prophet Atarah said, God has been good throughout last year, and 2025 has started on a positive note.
Against this backdrop, he wants to bring believers together and, in unity, to praise God.
He said, like what happened last year, a lot of miracles will take place.
In a related development, Prophet Atarah also commissioned a new studio for rehearsals and live recordings.
This, he said, was not limited to him, but open to every musician across all genres.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Entertainment
Empress Gifty to thrill patrons at MTN Stands In Worship on Easter Sunday

Ghanaian gospel heavyweight, Empress Gifty is set to thrill thousands at this year’s MTN Stands In Worship event.
The programme brings believers together annually to celebrate the death and resurrection of Christ.
This year’s edition, slated for the Grand Arena on Sunday, April 20, will feature Empress Gifty.
Against this backdrop, the anointed gospel musician has urged all patrons to come with a heart of worship and praise.
She is optimistic that a lot of miracles will happen through the ministration.
“Through our ministrations instant miracles will happen and you are going to have an encounter with God,” she told The Spectator.
Empress Gifty again appealed to patrons not to come alone, but with their families and friends to receive blessings.
Empress Gifty, who had a big song dubbed Watch Me, has been nominated in the Best Traditional Gospel Song of the Year and Gospel Artiste of the Year categories at this year’s 26th Telecel Ghana Music Awards.