Accra, Dec. 22, — Veteran filmmaker Mr Kwaw Paintsil Ansah has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to storytelling and the promotion of Ghanaian and African cultural identity.
La Foundation for the Arts (LAFA), a non-governmental organisation, conferred on him the Ghana Film Legend Award at a ceremony held in Accra on Friday.
In a citation accompanying the award, the organisers commended Mr Ansah’s distinctive artistry and lasting influence, describing his body of work as “a testament to the enduring power of film as both cultural archive and social conscience.”
The citation stated: “His films illuminate Ghana’s cultural heritage and the broader African experience, preserving collective memory while boldly interrogating social norms.
“Beyond his creative accomplishments, Mr Ansah has consistently championed the cause of women and marginalised groups.
“His steadfast dedication to equity, representation and human dignity has enriched cultural dialogue and amplified voices that are often overlooked.”
Mr Ansah is acclaimed for productions such as Love Brewed in the African Pot, Heritage Africa, Harvest at 17, Praising the Lord Plus One, The Good Old Days: Papa Lasisi Good Bicycle, and The Good Old Days: Suffering to Lose.
Born in Agona Swedru in the Central Region, he studied Theatre Design at the London Polytechnic before pursuing Performing Arts at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York between 1963 and 1965.
Upon returning to Ghana, he served as an executive member of the Ghana Drama Association and the Film Guild of Ghana, and later founded Film Africa Limited in 1977.
The 84-year-old filmmaker, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to LAFA for the honour, stating: “With this award, I am reminded that there is still work to be done… Until my last breath, I will continue to offer the little I have been blessed with to help lay a foundation for Africa’s continued rise.”
Professor Kojo Yankah, Founder of the African University College of Communication, praised Mr Ansah’s passion, professionalism, creativity and pan-African outlook.
He called for the preservation of initiatives such as the Bisa Aberewa Museum, established by the filmmaker, for the benefit of future generations.
“Let us not say we lacked individuals to ignite the kind of passion Kwaw Ansah demonstrated… Let this occasion inspire more courage, vision and commitment to confronting ignorance about Ghana and Africa, and to safeguarding our heritage,” he said.
Mr Carl Ampah, National Professional Officer of UNESCO, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to protecting heritage and promoting cultural diversity, and appealed for greater support for creative practitioners and cultural institutions.
Ms Marain Mante, Head of Public Relations at UNIMAC-IFT, speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, commended Mr Ansah for shaping the intellectual, artistic and ideological trajectory of African cinema.
“Kwaw Ansah did not merely produce films; he crafted statements. He insisted on telling African stories with depth, dignity and authority at a time when such narratives were marginalised or distorted. He proved that African cinema can be technically proficient, culturally grounded and globally resonant without compromise,” she said.
She added that UNIMAC would sustain collaboration with LAFA and other partners to advance the preservation of African heritage through film.
Ms Safoa Aisha Cablye, Founder and Managing Partner of LAFA, indicated that similar recognition would be extended to other creatives who continue to project compelling African narratives.
Dr Francis Osei Blay, President of LAFA, explained that the organisation’s work centres on heritage and the arts, creative innovation, community engagement and education.
He noted that through exhibitions, honours programmes, public forums and strategic partnerships, LAFA promotes cultural preservation and contributes to strengthening Ghana’s creative economy.
GHBUSS
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