The Ghanaian film industry paid tribute to its trailblazer, Kwaw Ansah, during the second edition of the Africa Cinema Summit’s Legacy Awards held on October 9, 2024, at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra. Kwaw Ansah, celebrated for his transformative contributions to the cinematic landscape, received the prestigious Legendary Award. He is particularly renowned for his influential films such as “Love Brewed in the African Pot” and “Heritage Africa,” which not only captivated audiences but also highlighted essential social issues and the rich cultural heritage of Ghana. His decades of work have made significant strides in elevating Ghanaian cinema, and his recognition at this summit emphasizes his pivotal role in the film industry.
As part of the award ceremony, various stakeholders from the film community across Africa were honored for their notable contributions. A diverse array of talent was recognized, including renowned Ghanaian actress Yvonne Nelson and Nigerian luminaries like AY, Kunle Afolayan, and Funke Akindele. AY stood out during the event, receiving two awards for his remarkable impact on the industry. Additionally, other notable Ghanaian filmmakers such as Shirley Frimpong Manso, Leila Djansi, and Ivan Quashigah were recognized for their efforts in advancing the cinematic arts in Ghana.
The award presentation for Kwaw Ansah was made poignant by the words of Juliet Asante, who presented the award on his behalf. She remarked that the honor was the final award of the evening, emphasizing that every filmmaker in Ghana stands on the foundation laid by Ansah’s groundbreaking work. She articulated that Ansah embodies the spirit of the Legacy Award, underlining the importance of his contributions in shaping the narrative of Ghanaian cinema. This heartfelt tribute demonstrates the deep respect and admiration the industry has for Ansah and his lasting impact.
Organized by Ghana’s National Film Authority (NFA), the Africa Cinema Summit drew an impressive audience, including executives from the African diaspora and representatives from investment bodies such as Afreximbank and the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD). The summit aimed to foster collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth within the African cinema industry. Notable guest speakers contributed to the summit’s dialogue on the future of African cinema, including British actor Idris Elba, who headlined Day 1 of the event.
The summit’s Day 2 featured the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, as the guest of honor, adding a layer of cultural significance to the proceedings. The Minister of Tourism, Creative Arts, and Culture, Mr. Andrew Egyapa Mercer, also attended both days, highlighting the government’s interest in supporting and promoting the film industry. Such high-profile participation signals a recognition of the vital role that cinema plays in the cultural and economic landscape of Ghana and the wider African context.
As the second edition of the Africa Cinema Summit culminated on October 10, the legacy of artists like Kwaw Ansah continued to echo through the industry. The awards ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also promoted a vision of solidarity and progress among filmmakers across the continent. In recognizing the contributions of both established and emerging talents, the summit aimed to chart a course toward a dynamic and thriving future for African cinema, creating pathways for collaboration and innovation while preserving cultural narratives through film.
