A scene during the launch of MTN One TV. Inset: Some industry stakeholders at the launch
The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Yussif Issaka Jajah, has stated that the launch of the MTN One TV is a step towards giving a wider reach to Ghana’s rich storytelling abilities.
Speaking at the launch of MTN One TV, he applauded the collaboration that exists between the telecommunication giant, movie stakeholders and the ministry in outdooring this initiative, saying, “Today we are taking another important step towards a future where Ghanaian stories can travel further, reach wider audiences, and create greater value, while ensuring that the creators, custodians, and communities behind those stories are not left behind.”
Issaka Jajah further indicated that, “empowering Ghana’s creative industry through collaboration and digital innovation is so timely. This is exactly what the ministry has been advocating for. Under the revised cultural policy of Ghana, our focus is on making culture not just beautiful but bankable.”
He added that “the ministry cannot do that without the two things you have identified in your team: collaboration and digital innovation.”
“On the launch of MTN One TV today, you are taking a bolder step by giving Ghanaian content a home and Ghanaian creators a platform that is only Ghanaian and truly global.
“To our filmmakers and creators here, this is your moment. As a government, we are committed to working with industry, development partners, technology partners, and all relevant stakeholders that build an environment where Ghanaian creativity can thrive,” he stated.
He also revealed that the ministry together with its stakeholders are strengthening conversations on intellectual property, local content quotas and training, to ensure that Ghanaian films and content meet world-class standards.
Chief Digital Officer of MTN Ghana, Ibrahim Misto, said the MTN One TV is an entertainment proposition that brings together local storytelling, live channels, international programming, and flexible viewing options.
“Beyond giving customers greater choice, it creates an opportunity to connect creators, content owners, broadcasters, advertisers, and audiences within a stronger digital entertainment ecosystem by partnering with producers and content owners, we can expand the reach of Ghanaian film and television, make content easier to discover, and give immersion talent greater visibility,” he said.
Ibrahim Misto further added that a strong digital content ecosystem can also generate new revenue and support writers, directors, actors, editors, technicians, and product crews who depend on the creative industry.
“Giving Ghanaian content a stronger presence in the digital space is also a way of preserving our cultural identity and ensuring that future generations can continue to connect with the stories that define us,” he added.
BY Prince Fiifi Yorke