Africa Cinema Summit Commences Conversations At The Silverbird Cinemas

Written By : Priscilla Boakye

The Africa Cinema Summit was held in Accra on 14^th  November at the Silverbird Cinema hosted by the National Film Authority. The three – day event marks a historic milestone as the first – ever Cinema Summit in Africa organised in Africa for Africa.

The goal of the summit was to sensitize, effect and influence cinema culture in Ghana and Africa. The first day of the summit was categorized into three segments under the themes, FOSTERING COLLABORATIONS AMONG AFRICAN COUNTRIES , THE ROLE OF THE YOUTH IN THE CINEMA DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA AND YOUTH – CENTRIC FILM MARKETING STRATEGIES: FOR THE DIGITAL AGE.

The CEO of the National Film Authority and the convener of the summit in giving the purpose of the gathering, emphasized that the event was grounded in the twin pillars of content growth and cinema screen growth on the continent. She asserted that this initiative must evolve into both a national and continental dialogue while encouraging broad participation from students, market women, teachers, corporate entities and government bodies which according to Ms. Juliet Asante will impact every facet of society.

Deliberating on the first segment of the event under the theme, FOSTERING COLLABORATIONS AMONG AFRICAN COUNTRIES, participants discussed the essence of collaboration in the film and creative industry. Some notable points that were mentioned include, the bridging of gaps and propelling growth of the African film industry, signifying the potential to unify film makers and industry players from across the continent taking into consideration that the success of every movie, TV show, or documentary hinges on a team of talented individuals working together in harmony. This further emphasizes on collaboration as the essence of the filmmaking process where diverse skills, ideas and perspectives come together to create compelling stories that captivate audiences worldwide.

On the Role of the Youth in Cinema Development in Africa, participants discussed the importance of recognising the ability of movies in wielding both positive and negative influences, especially on the impressionable minds of today’s youth.Moreover, most youngsters who aspire to be prominent or active in the creative industry have passion and in depth understanding of the industry and are challenging themselves to bring out exclusive contents. In light of this revelation, veteran film makers were called upon to assist these youngsters by either holding a summit or seminar to brief them on the nitty - gritties of the industry with films also serving as an employment avenue for the youth.

In the final session under the theme Youth - Centric Film Marketing Strategies: for the Digital age, there was a discussion on innovative approaches to film promotion, the disparities between traditional media, digital and social media and the advantages therein. Some of the key highlights were on the importance and significance of social media in comparison with other forms of media, emphasizing on its utilization in the promotion of film. However, it was also mentioned that depending on the audience of choice, either medium could be beneficial in the promotion of African film.

The event is set to last for a period of three days and will cover a number of subjects and issues which will foster result-oriented conversations to improve film culture within the African Diaspora.