Kumawood star Agya Koo has shared his insights into the factors behind the decline of Ghana's once-vibrant film industry, noting that frequent power outages during John Dramani Mahama's presidency had a significant impact on the sector.“I won’t shy away from the fact that the power issues during Mahama’s time had a huge impact on our industry,” Agya Koo stated during an interview on Lawson Radio.

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“Filmmakers depend on reliable electricity to create their work, and without it, production slows down. It contributed to the decline of our industry, and sadly, it wasn’t the only issue.”Agya Koo’s career, spanning several decades, has solidified him as a key figure in Ghana’s film industry. However, his recent reflections highlight the challenges the sector has faced in recent years.

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Known for his iconic roles in Kumawood films, the actor expressed frustration over how frequent power outages in Ghana have disrupted film production, hampering the industry’s output and consistency. While he acknowledged this as a significant issue, he emphasized that it was not the only factor behind the industry’s decline.

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Reflecting further on the struggles facing the industry, Agya Koo also addressed rumours suggesting he had assumed a “demigod” status in the film world, clarifying his position and role in the evolving landscape.

accusations are baseless,” he asserted firmly. “Yes, I played a major part in the growth of Ghanaian cinema, but I didn’t treat myself like royalty. In the beginning, I

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didn’t even charge for my work. I just wanted to push the industry forward.”Agya Koo went on to explain that it wasn’t until later in his career, after establishing himself as a leading actor and producer, that he began requesting a modest fee for his work. “People need to understand that I wasn’t trying to create a sense of entitlement,” he said.

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“But as I became more well-known, I had to take my career seriously and ask for compensation for the work I was doing. That’s when the jealousy started to creep in.”This statement highlights the intricate dynamics within Ghana’s film industry, where early trailblazers often become focal points of discussion, attracting both admiration and criticism as they achieve success.

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Agya Koo feels that much of the backlash he experienced stemmed from his swift rise to fame and the public's perception of his influence in the industry.“When you become a household name, people tend to have a lot to say, especially if they can’t achieve the same level of success,” he remarked.

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