Award-winning Ghanaian actor, Gloria Sarfo, has joined the long-standing battle between the Ghana and Nigeria film industries, setting things right on what she believes is often misunderstood.
Background of the Debate
Stakeholders and enthusiasts have, over the years, compared the growth of Nollywood in Nigeria with Ghallywood/Kumawood in Ghana, arguing hotly about quality, global reach, and box office performance. While some argue that Nollywood has overshadowed Ghana's movie industry, others say that there is a lot both countries bring to the table for African cinema.
Gloria Sarfo's Opinion
In a recent interview, Gloria Sarfo dismissed the notion of rivalry existing between Ghana and Nigeria, stressing that both industries should be viewed as collaborative forces rather than competitors.
"There is nothing like competition. Ghana and Nigeria have always been collaborating. You find a lot of Ghanaian actors in Nollywood films, and Nigerian actors are also in Ghanaian productions. We need to embrace collaboration, not rivalry," she said.
The Call for Unity
Sarfo emphasized that the African film industry could thrive only if creatives across the continent unite. She also urged producers, directors, and actors to focus on quality stories, better financing, and global distribution instead of futile comparisons.
Ghanaian Actors in Nollywood
Previously, numerous Ghanaian actors like Van Vicker, Jackie Appiah, Majid Michel, and Yvonne Nelson have recorded enormous success in Nollywood. Gloria Sarfo believes that this kind of cross-border presence is an attestation to the entanglement of both industries.
Looking Ahead
The actress called for greater support from governments, investors, and streaming platforms to enable African cinema to attain a greater global audience. According to her, Africa's affluent culture and narratives deserve more global recognition.
By setting the record straight, Gloria Sarfo has reminded fans and players in the industry that the Ghana-Nigeria movie talk must be about unity and development, and not competition. Together, African movies can continue to shine on the global stage.