Yvonne Nelson and AY Among Honorees at Africa Cinema Summit

The Africa Cinema Summit continued to captivate attendees on Day 3, held on October 9, 2024, at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra.

This year’s summit, now in its second edition, has become a vibrant hub for filmmakers, actors, and industry stakeholders from across the continent, united by a common goal: to foster collaboration and growth within the African film industry.

One of the day’s highlights was the prestigious Legacy Awards, which celebrated the significant contributions of various individuals in the film industry.

Among the honorees was celebrated Ghanaian actress Yvonne Nelson, whose talent and dedication have made her a household name.

She reflected on the importance of recognition in the industry, stating, “It’s a humbling experience to be acknowledged for the work we do. It motivates us to keep pushing boundaries.”

Nigerian stars AY, Kunle Afolayan, and Funke Akindele also received accolades for their remarkable contributions, with AY making a special mark by taking home two awards.

“Winning these awards is not just about me,” AY shared during his acceptance speech. “It’s about every artist out there hustling and striving to tell our stories.”

Other notable Ghanaian figures honoured included acclaimed filmmakers Shirley Frimpong Manso and Leila Djansi, as well as Yolo producer Ivan Quashigah.

The legendary Kwaw Ansah received the prestigious Legendary Award, a recognition of his lasting impact on the film industry.

As he accepted the award, Ansah said, “This honour is a testament to the hard work and passion of everyone in this room. We are building a legacy that future generations will cherish.”

The summit has attracted a diverse global audience, including executives from the African diaspora and representatives from major investment bodies like Afreximbank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC). This blend of creativity and commerce showcases the growing interest in African cinema on the world stage.

Previous days of the summit featured notable figures, including British actor Idris Elba, who inspired many with his insights on the importance of storytelling.

The second day also welcomed King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, as the guest of honor, along with Ghana’s Minister of Tourism, Creative Arts, and Culture, Andrew Egyapa Mercer. “Our culture is rich, and our stories deserve to be told,” Mercer emphasized, highlighting the summit’s role in elevating African narratives.

Day 3 saw a gathering of familiar faces, including actors Adjetey Annan and Gloria Sarfo, as well as Juliet Yaa Asantewaa Asante, the CEO of the National Film Authority. Their presence underscored the collaborative spirit that defines the summit.

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