Veteran film director Akwasi Aboagye has raised concerns about the impact of the misuse of technology on Ghana’s movie industry, arguing that the free use and redistribution of films available online are depriving filmmakers of much-needed revenue.

Speaking on Angel FM, Kumasi, Akwasi Aboagye said the industry recognises the benefits technology has brought to filmmaking and content distribution but is struggling with the way some people exploit digital platforms without regard for the rights and commercial interests of content creators.

“We accept the technology and appreciate the advantages it comes with, except the fact that people are using the work freely,” he said.

According to him, some television stations download movies from YouTube and broadcast them without paying the creators or obtaining the necessary rights, a practice he believes is contributing to the financial difficulties confronting Ghana’s movie industry.

He explained that although digital platforms have made films more accessible to audiences, the uncontrolled use of copyrighted productions means filmmakers can lose the revenue they would otherwise earn from their work.

Akwasi Aboagye’s concerns highlight a growing challenge for Ghanaian filmmakers on how to take advantage of the reach offered by digital technology while ensuring that online access does not undermine the commercial value of locally produced content.

He therefore stressed the need for greater respect for the ownership and commercial rights attached to creative works if the movie industry is to generate enough revenue to sustain production.