Silverbird Cinemas Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to the growth of the African film industry, emphasizing the cinema as a unique cultural experience that transcends screen time. In a statement issued by Funmi Onuma, Country Manager of Silverbird Ghana, the cinema giant expressed the need for stronger partnerships between African film producers, creative talents, and private sector players to boost the industry’s sustainability.
Drawing an analogy with the excitement of watching live football versus a televised match, Onuma remarked, “The cinema remains the ultimate destination for entertainment, offering an immersive experience that cannot be replicated elsewhere. It is imperative for us to join hands to preserve and promote the culture of cinema.”
Silverbird Ghana also praised the government’s ongoing efforts to support the film industry through policies and investments. However, Onuma stressed the importance of increased private sector involvement to propel the industry forward through strategic collaborations and additional investment.
A key moment in this mission was Ghana’s hosting of the Africa Cinema Summit in 2023. The event, which brought together stakeholders from across the continent, led to new partnerships and initiatives aimed at transforming the African film ecosystem. Silverbird Cinemas Ghana was a proud partner of the summit and has since seen the benefits of this collaboration.
One notable success is the technology partnership between Silverbird Ghana and Reach Cinema Solutions. This partnership, born out of the Africa Cinema Summit, has enhanced the operational efficiency of Silverbird Cinemas, reducing costs by 50%. “Reach Cinema Solutions has brought innovative support to cinemas across Africa, helping us deliver greater value to our customers,” Onuma added.
Another highlight of the summit is the cross-border collaboration between African filmmakers. The much-anticipated film One Night Guests, co-produced by Ghanaian filmmaker Peter Sedufia and Nigeria’s Sozo Film, is a testament to the creative partnerships fostered at the event. The film, featuring top actors from both countries, is set to premiere on December 25th, 2024.
Silverbird Cinemas Ghana calls on all stakeholders, including private investors, to take ownership of the African film ecosystem and support its growth. “Together, we can build a thriving industry that reflects our stories, preserves our culture, and creates opportunities for the next generation of filmmakers and creatives,” Onuma concluded.
