Ghana’s film landscape is lighting up as acclaimed Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan rolls out parts of the sequel to his Netflix hit, Aníkúlápó, on Ghanaian terrain. The announcement underscores Ghana’s growing role in Africa’s cross-border cinematic collaborations.
A Historic Collaboration Begins
At the June 2024 Nigeria International Film & TV Summit in Cannes, Afolayan revealed that Season 2 of Aníkúlápó will be filmed partly in Ghana. Afolayan emphasized that Ghana’s scenic landscapes and production infrastructure were key draws . National Film Authority (NFA) CEO Juliet Yaa Asantewa Asante spearheaded the deal, championing Ghana’s “Shoot in Ghana” initiative designed to attract international productions and foster Ghana–Nigeria industry ties.
On-Site in Ghana: Scouting & Pre-Production
In July 2024, Afolayan was spotted scouting diverse Ghanaian locales—ranging from lush forests to historic sites—to align with Aníkúlápó’s epic fantasy aesthetic (). He highlighted Ghana’s scenic diversity and local technical capabilities, praising the visual prospects and logistical readiness.
Why Ghana? Beyond Scenery
Beyond its visual appeal, Ghana offers real economic and creative benefits:
Local jobs & skills transfer: Afolayan’s team, including his KAP Academy, is set to engage Ghanaian production assistants, craftsmen, set builders, and location scouts . Infrastructure readiness: Ghana’s NFA has invested in facilities and regulatory support to simplify shooting permissions and build local capacity.
The collaboration signals a deepening partnership between Ghana and Nollywood—fueling economic growth in both film and tourism sectors.
Cast & Crew: A Pan-African Production
Season 2 will feature returning Nigerian stars like Sola Sobowale, Bimbo Ademoye, and Lateef Adedimeji, alongside new talents including Ghanaian actors—a further nod to Ghana’s creative inclusion . With an estimated crew exceeding 600, the project promises significant crew expansion beyond Nigeria, offering Ghanaian industry players international-level exposure.
Cultural Synergy & Industry Growth
This move reflects deeper cultural resonance between Ghana and Nigeria. Afolayan stated, “Ghana is partly Nigeria, and Nigeria is partly Ghana,” underscoring shared history and creative potential . NFA has leveraged this sentiment: Aníkúlápó potentially joins other international projects, like the Super Bowl ad shot in Ghana, in showcasing the country’s versatility as a global location.
Economic Ripple Effects
Tourism boost: Scenic exposure across travel platforms can drive interest in real-world Ghanaian destinations. Local spending: Catering, transport, accommodation, and construction spend will flow into Ghana’s creative ecosystem. Skill legacy: Mentorship and on-the-job training will create a new wave of skilled local professionals.
What to Expect Next
Filming reportedly began in September 2024 and will stretch into late 2025. With the initial four-episode Season 1 premiering March 2024 and staying in Netflix’s Top 10 in Nigeria for 10 weeks, expectations are high.
Afolayan views Season 2 as both cultural storytelling and continental partnership:
“This collaboration is a great win for both countries and Africa at large.”
Significance for Ghana
Creative branding: Ghana cements its place as an international film destination. Industry momentum: High-profile projects can prompt local investment in studios, effects, and talent pipelines. Catalyst effect: With Ghana showing its value, more directors may follow Afolayan’s lead.
As Aníkúlápó’s cameras roll in Ghana, locals and industry stakeholders will be watching closely. If successful, this collaboration could redefine Ghana’s role in global film production—and affirm the broader vision behind “Shoot in Ghana.”