Leila Djansi
Filmmaker Leila Djansi has issued a strong appeal to the government, urging President John Dramani Mahama to establish proper structures and systems before committing funds to the Ghanaian film industry.
Leila Djansi, known for her outspoken views on the state of the industry, criticized the persistent financial pleas from filmmakers whenever there is a change in government, arguing that this trend has transformed the sector into a “government liability rather than an economic asset.”
In a passionate statement, she warned against direct government funding for filmmakers without first ensuring that the industry operates with financial accountability and professional standards.
“I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again: If the Ghanaian government ever allocates funding to filmmakers before establishing proper industry structures, I will personally gather the struggling mothers from the Mothers’ Lodge at Korle Bu and lead a protest,” she declared.
Djansi highlighted the dire conditions of mothers at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, who struggle daily to provide for their sick children, often relying on private donations and makeshift gardens to survive. She argued that the government’s priority should be on healthcare and social welfare rather than funding an industry that lacks accountability.
She further challenged Ghanaian filmmakers to reflect on their contributions to the economy, questioning whether they pay social security (SSNIT) for their cast and crew, insure their equipment, or fulfil their tax obligations.
“Ghanaian filmmakers want government funding? For what? What film has generated significant revenue for the country?” she asked, adding that foreign films likely contribute more tax revenue than local productions.
Leila also criticized the lack of originality in Ghanaian storytelling, pointing out that local screens are dominated by remakes of foreign shows rather than authentic Ghanaian narratives.