The vetting process for Ministerial positions in Ghana took a contentious turn as Member of Parliament for the Yolon constituency, Habib Iddrisu, directed a condescending comment towards John Dumelo, the Deputy Minister designate for the Ministry of Agriculture.
Habib Iddrisu’s remark, “If you go to the ministry, try to assist your minister… Also note that when you go to the ministry, you are not in your movie industry as you are, try to be as serious as you can,” insinuated that individuals in the creative arts, specifically the movie industry, are lacking in seriousness compared to other sectors.
This derogatory statement not only disrespects the dedicated professionals in Ghana’s creative industries but also misrepresents the significant contributions these sectors make to the national economy and cultural identity.
John Dumelo’s visible reaction to Habib Iddrisu’s comment accurately reflected the disdain such a remark deserved.
It is disappointing and concerning that a Member of Parliament would suggest that the film industry, and by extension, the entire creative sector, is not serious.
The film industry is not just about entertainment; it is a structured academic discipline taught in universities worldwide and a fundamental driver of economic growth.
Dismissing it as trivial not only showcases ignorance but also undermines the hard work of numerous professionals in the field. Leaders should be advocating for the creative industry, not belittling it with uninformed comments.
To provide context, let’s examine the success of three major film industries—Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In 2024, Nollywood generated ₦11.5 billion, marking a 60% growth from the previous year.
The UK film industry earned £931 million in revenue, with projections to surpass £1 billion in 2025. Meanwhile, Hollywood consistently generates billions of dollars annually, solidifying its position as the largest film industry globally.
These statistics highlight that the film industry is not only serious but also a substantial revenue generator, creating employment opportunities, shaping culture, and significantly contributing to national GDPs. Any notion that filmmaking is anything less than a vital industry is outdated and must be rectified.
The creative arts, which encompass film, music, dance, and visual arts, are far from frivolous pastimes; they are serious, robust sectors that drive innovation, preserve cultural identity, and generate significant revenue.
In Ghana, tourism and the creative arts rank among the top five revenue contributors, providing livelihoods for many and supporting related industries like advertising, event management, and hospitality.
Films and music not only uphold Ghana’s rich cultural heritage but also showcase our vibrant culture on a global platform, attracting tourists and investors. Dismissing the creative arts as mere entertainment oversimplifies the intellectual rigor, creativity, and economic impact of this sector.
It is crucial for public figures like Habib Iddrisu to acknowledge and respect the crucial role that creative professionals play in society.
His comment not only devalues the creative arts but also perpetuates a harmful stereotype that these fields are less serious than traditional disciplines like science and math.
Such statements are deeply hurtful to those striving for recognition and support in the creative industry. An apology acknowledging the indispensable contributions of the creative arts is essential—an industry that enriches communities, boosts tourism, and inspires future generations.
In a nation that celebrates diversity and creativity, every sector deserves equal recognition and support. Derogatory remarks that undermine the value of the creative arts hinder our cultural and economic progress.
