Ghanaian actor and comedian Kwadwo Nkansah, popularly known as Lilwin, has publicly expressed disappointment in former President John Mahama for failing to include movie industry stakeholders in a recent World Cup fundraising event.
Lilwin Calls Out Leadership Over Snub
According to Lilwin, the absence of invitations to key figures in Ghana’s film industry was a major oversight. He specifically pointed to former President John Mahama and Sports Minister Kofi Iddie Adams, stating that both leaders should have ensured broader representation at such a crucial national event.
The actor argued that the movie industry remains a powerful force in shaping public opinion and mobilising national support, especially during major sporting moments like the FIFA World Cup.
“We Also Matter” – Film Industry’s Role Highlighted
Lilwin stressed that while musicians are often recognised for their influence, the movie industry also boasts equally impactful personalities who can rally support for the Black Stars.
He described the exclusion as “not fine,” adding that the film industry has consistently supported national causes and deserves recognition in initiatives of this scale.
For context on Ghana’s sports development efforts, see our coverage on Black Stars rebuild strategy and Ghana sports funding challenges.
Concerns Over Declining Black Stars Enthusiasm
Beyond the exclusion, Lilwin also addressed what he described as a growing lack of excitement among Ghanaians toward the national team.
He suggested that certain behaviours by players have contributed to declining public confidence, making it even more important for stakeholders across all sectors to come together and rebuild national support.
Read more on fan sentiment in our report on Black Stars fan confidence decline.
Why Inclusion Matters Ahead of the World Cup
As Ghana prepares for upcoming international competitions, Lilwin believes inclusivity is key. Engaging actors, filmmakers, and creatives alongside musicians and sports personalities could create a stronger national campaign and boost morale.
Global best practices also show that entertainment figures play a key role in sports promotion. According to FIFA, fan engagement campaigns often rely on celebrities to drive visibility and unity.
Similarly, sports marketing insights from BBC Sport highlight how cross-industry collaborations enhance team support and sponsorship success.
Final Thoughts
Lilwin’s remarks have sparked conversation about inclusivity and national unity as Ghana builds toward the World Cup. His message is clear: every influential sector, including the movie industry, has a role to play in supporting the Black Stars.
As discussions continue, the focus now shifts to whether future initiatives will adopt a more inclusive approach to rally nationwide support.
