BSIFF opens in grand style
The much awaited Black Star International Film Festival(BSIFF) has opened in Accra with a call on stakeholders to support the industry.
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Speaking at the opening ceremony at the Silverbird Cinema, Accra Mall last Thursday, the Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Madam Ablah Dzifa Gomashie, was full of praise for the organiser, Juliet Asante, for her initiative and for lifting the industry to another level.
She urged filmmakers to tell the African story and promote the diversity that we have as a people, adding that the Film Bill is about to be passed into an act. “the ministry with support from the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice had the Film Bill gazetted in January this year after a very rigorous exercise of collecting, refining and documenting. it is hoped that the Film Bill will be passed as soon as possible,” she said.
Madam Gomashie also urged people from the various sectors of the Creative Arts industry to form associations so that their voices can be heard.
Throwing more light on the theme for the festival, she said “ the theme for the festival, ‘Shaping the mind of a generation,’ is succinctly put. It reflects the power of the sector to change the narrative on us, as Ghanaians and also our beloved continent. It recognises that the youth are a valuable resource and they must be harnessed for national development.”
For her part, the Executive Director of the festival, Juliet Asante expressed gratitude to all sponsors for making the festival a reality. She also stated that her vision is to make the Black Star International Film Festival one of the top five film festivals on the continent and to make Ghana a coveted festival destination in Africa.
“Not only is film an important source of national pride and identity, film also contributes critically to job creation and attracts foreign direct investments. Above it all is the ability of film to transform a people’s physio-cultural make-up,” she said.
The BSIFF which was launched by Dzifa Gomashie was attended by filmmakers from Ghana and all over the world as well as a few actors.
Host for the opening ceremony was Prof. Audrey Gadzekpo, Dean of School of Communications and Information Studies, University of Ghana. The National Dance Company was in attendance to entertain guests before the opening film, Nakom, was screened.
Screenings are ongoing today at the Silverbird Cinemas, Accra Mall, and Brazil House, Accra throughout the day. The closing ceremony and closing film Gidiblues comes off tonight at the Movenpick Hotel at 7pm for Executive Pass Holders only.