Veteran Kumawood actor Agya Koo has called on the Ghanaian government to establish a national museum dedicated to the country's creative arts personalities. He believes this institution would provide a permanent record of the contributions made by actors, musicians, filmmakers, and other influential figures in the creative industry. This would also give younger generations an opportunity to learn about the people who helped shape Ghanaian entertainment. Agya Koo expressed concern that several celebrated figures in the industry were passing away without their professional achievements being adequately preserved.
Agya Koo drew comparisons with other countries, mentioning how the works and personal memorabilia of international entertainment figures are preserved and displayed for public appreciation. He cited examples from New York, Holland, and Japan, where museums showcase the achievements of legendary figures like Bruce Lee and Jet Li. The actor argued that Ghana should develop a system that recognises and documents the contributions of its creative personalities during their lifetimes, rather than waiting until after their deaths to celebrate them.
The actor also proposed that film producers contribute 20 per cent of actors' payments to a welfare or insurance scheme to support performers who become ill, grow old, or can no longer work. He believes this measure would help address the vulnerability of some industry veterans, who face financial hardship in old age due to circumstances beyond their control. Agya Koo added that life can be unpredictable, and it is essential to put measures in place to support those in need.
Agya Koo called on the Office of the President and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts to consider his proposal and provide the necessary backing to make it a reality. He challenged the perception that meaningful contributions to national development must come from people with formal academic qualifications. The actor insisted that practical experience and exposure could offer valuable ideas, citing his own experiences and travels as evidence.
Beyond preserving Ghana's entertainment history, Agya Koo reflected on the changes Ghana's film industry has experienced over the years, particularly the transition from traditional television broadcasting and physical CDs to digital platforms like YouTube. While acknowledging that online platforms have created opportunities for emerging filmmakers, he expressed concerns about the quality of some productions. Agya Koo believes experienced actors and filmmakers have an important role to play in addressing these challenges by sharing their knowledge and helping younger creatives develop their skills.
The actor emphasised the importance of mentorship in the industry, encouraging veteran practitioners to actively mentor emerging talent and contribute to rebuilding the Ghanaian film industry. Agya Koo, who was among the prominent actors associated with Kumawood during its peak years, said that veteran practitioners should not distance themselves from the industry's next generation. Instead, they should pass on the lessons they have learnt and help improve production standards, storytelling, and overall filmmaking quality.
Agya Koo disclosed that he would be willing to engage the President to discuss how his proposal could be developed into a formal arrangement. He added that he would consider engaging the President on the proposal to explore how it could be formalised and implemented. His proposals highlight two concerns he considers important to the future of Ghanaian entertainment: preserving the achievements of those who built the industry and establishing better support systems for the people who continue to work in it.
Key points
- Agya Koo proposes a national museum to preserve the achievements of Ghanaian creative arts legends.
- He suggests a welfare or insurance scheme to support performers who become ill, grow old, or can no longer work.
- The actor encourages experienced industry players to mentor emerging filmmakers and help improve production standards.
