5 days ago
Ghanaian tourism curator Jonathan Nii Laryea, known as Jonilar, is advocating for filmmakers to choose Klowem, a significant location in the Manya Krobo district, for their projects. Recognizing the area's tourism potential, Jonilar urges government officials to take action to promote Klowem as a film and documentary site.
In his call to action, Jonilar stated, “The government office responsible for promoting Ghana’s image abroad should consider Klowem, the ancestral home of the Manya Krobo people, for a movie, documentary, or continental marketing campaign.” He believes that highlighting Klowem could present a unique opportunity to position Ghana favorably on the international stage, attracting investments and enhancing the creative arts industry. “The world wants to see us,” he emphasized.
Jonilar pointed out that several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Egypt, Rwanda, Morocco, and Nigeria, have made significant strides in promoting their cultural and tourism sectors. He questioned Ghana’s standing, noting, “Uganda, Kenya, and Gabon are making strong advances. Where does Ghana stand?”
He also highlighted the pressing issue of poor road conditions to various tourist sites across the country, stating, “The roads to our tourist destinations are in poor condition. Let’s come together and focus on this as a nation.”
While the Ghana Tourism Authority is working to address these challenges and attract more tourists, the National Film Authority is encouraging filmmakers worldwide to shoot their films in Ghana. Successful projects, like Kunle Afolayan’s "Anikulapo," have benefited from the "Shoot in Ghana" initiative, showcasing the potential of Ghana as a vibrant filming location. Notably, a much-discussed Super Bowl advertisement was also filmed in Ghana through this initiative.
Jonilar’s vision emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts to enhance Ghana’s tourism and creative sectors, encouraging stakeholders to invest in the country’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes.