Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Poku-Agyemang has lauded the launch of the Regal Film Festival and Awards (REFFA) 2025, describing the maiden edition as a significant milestone for Ghana’s creative industry and African cinema at large.
The vice president attended the inaugural event on Saturday night, joining filmmakers, actors and creatives from Ghana and across the African continent to celebrate excellence in film. She said the gathering marked the beginning of an important chapter for the industry, highlighting the growing role of African storytelling on regional and global platforms.
Poku-Agyemang noted that REFFA goes beyond recognizing achievements, positioning African films for wider exposure and opening opportunities beyond national borders. She urged filmmakers and actors, particularly emerging talents, to focus on depth, professionalism and sustainability rather than visibility alone.
“Our narratives must be told with quality and purpose,” she said, stressing the importance of stories that resonate with audiences while meeting international market standards. She added that strong storytelling is essential to ensuring African cinema remains competitive and impactful.
The vice president also called on investors and development partners to take a long-term view of the film industry, describing it as a sector with significant potential for job creation, cultural diplomacy and economic growth. According to her, sustained investment would help strengthen production value, build skills and expand distribution channels for African content.
She congratulated all award recipients and participants, commending their contributions to the growth of the creative arts. Poku-Agyemang expressed optimism about the future of the festival, wishing REFFA continued success as a platform that elevates African narratives and nurtures the next generation of creative talent.
REFFA organizers say the festival aims to become a key hub for celebrating African cinema while fostering collaboration and innovation across the continent’s film industry.