The recent appointments of Kafui Danku and James Gardiner to the Ghana National Film Authority (NFA) have sparked a whirlwind of controversy and debate within the film industry.
While some stakeholders have expressed concerns over their qualifications and experience, it is essential to consider the potential benefits these appointments could bring to the country’s film sector.
Kafui Danku, a seasoned actress and filmmaker, has been appointed as the CEO and Executive Secretary of the NFA. Her extensive experience in the creative arts, governance, and economic development positions her as a promising leader for the Authority. Danku’s appointment comes at a time when the Ghanaian film industry is in dire need of revitalization and strategic direction. Her background in producing films and championing social causes could drive policy reforms and create opportunities for industry players.
James Gardiner, appointed as the Deputy Executive Secretary, brings a fresh perspective to the NFA. As an actor with a significant following, Gardiner’s presence could attract a younger audience and inspire a new generation of filmmakers. His appointment signals a shift towards inclusivity and diversity within the Authority, which could foster a more dynamic and innovative film industry.
Kafui Danku Newly appointed CEO and Executive Secretary of the National Film Authority
Despite the backlash from some industry stakeholders, it is crucial to recognize the potential advantages of these appointments. The film industry thrives on creativity, collaboration, and fresh ideas.
Danku and Gardiner’s appointments could inject new energy into the sector, encouraging collaboration between established professionals and emerging talents. This synergy could lead to the production of high-quality films that resonate with both local and international audiences.
The “Qualified Squad” for the NFA Appointment aside James Gardiner and Kafui Danku and the arguments made are as follows
Association of Ghana Creatives is requesting that the President rather considers other options.
According to them, Kafui and James don’t have the competent skills to handle the position.
“We, the undersigned members of the Association of Ghanaian Creatives, urge the government to appoint qualified, visionary leadership at the NFA. The institution must be helmed by a technocrat with deep industry knowledge, supported by a board of experienced creative professionals who can steer the sector toward revitalization and global competitiveness,” the petition states.
The petition also expressed that, “neither Kafui Danku nor James Gardiner possesses the industry experience or expertise required to lead such a vital institution. Their backgrounds, limited to low-budget productions and social media branding, fall woefully short of the strategic vision needed to navigate Ghana’s film sector toward growth.”
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The group intimates that “the appointment of an underqualified CEO signals a departure from excellence, particularly when contrasted with the legacy of Juliet Yaa Asantewaa Asante, a Harvard-trained industry leader who brought groundbreaking initiatives to the NFA and successfully brokered distribution deals with major players like MTN.”
They suggested the following film professionals to be given the positions:
1. George Bosompin (National Film Institute, GAFTA)
2. Jim Awindor (Film and television strategist)
3. Akofa Edjeani Asiedu (veteran filmmaker and policy maker)
4. Professor Linus Abraham (Media and communication expert)
5. Akosua Abdallah (Film education and policy expert)
6. Ms. Nicole Amarteifio (Pioneering filmmaker and industry advocate)
However, three members of the Academy of Film and Television Arts (GAFTA), Dr. Jim Fara Awindor, George Bosompim, and Professor Linus Abraham, have distanced themselves from a petition calling for the cancellation of two recent appointments to the National Film Authority, despite being listed as potential candidates for the positions.
It is interesting to note that besides these freshness and vitality they bring into the industry, many have questioned their level of experience and expertise vis a vis other experienced hands like Akosua Abdallah, daughter of the revered Prof Abdallah.
Names such as Jim Awindor, who is not only a practitioner, but an academic could bring a vast change in the sector; creating a room for further collaborations between academic institutions and the industry.
Many are of the opinion that these names carry weight than James whom a vast majority of his critics feel he has only social media appeal and doesn’t command any impetus as a film maker.
Moreover, the appointments of Danku and Gardiner could enhance the visibility of the Ghanaian film industry on the global stage. Their combined influence and networks could attract international partnerships and investments, providing much-needed resources for the development of the sector.
By leveraging their connections, the NFA could secure distribution deals and co-production opportunities that would elevate Ghanaian cinema to new heights.
In conclusion, while the appointments of Kafui Danku and James Gardiner have stirred controversy, it is essential to focus on the potential benefits they could bring to the Ghanaian film industry. Their leadership could drive policy reforms, foster collaboration, and attract international investments, ultimately revitalizing the sector and positioning Ghana as a significant player in the global film industry. It is time to embrace change and support the new leadership in their efforts to transform the NFA and the broader film landscape.
