Ghanaian Film Producer Challenges New Ashanti Region Movie Association Over ‘Kumawood’ Name Rights
Prominent Ghanaian film producer Samuel Darko, professionally known as Samdakus, has publicly opposed a newly formed filmmakers’ association in the Ashanti Region over their use of the “Kumawood” name. The group, called the Kumawood Ashanti Film Association, was recently established under the leadership of Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene.
Samdakus expressed his displeasure with the association’s decision to incorporate the Kumawood brand into their official name. The film producer’s opposition highlights potential trademark and intellectual property concerns surrounding the popular Ghanaian film industry term.
The Kumawood film industry, centered in Kumasi, represents a significant segment of Ghana’s entertainment sector. The industry produces primarily Twi-language films and has gained substantial popularity across West Africa over the past decade.
Dr. Frank Amoakohene spearheaded the formation of the new association, which aims to organize and support filmmakers in the Ashanti Region. However, Samdakus’s objection suggests potential legal or professional disputes regarding the use of the established Kumawood brand name.
The controversy raises questions about ownership rights and proper usage of industry terminology within Ghana’s film sector. This dispute could impact how future film associations in the region organize and brand themselves, potentially affecting the broader Kumawood industry’s development and commercial interests.
