Samuel Nyamekye decries government absence at Grace Nortey's funeral

Rev Samuel Nyamekye, the Chief Executive Officer of Miracle Films Productions, has expressed profound disappointment over the absence of government officials at the funeral of the late veteran actress Grace Nortey. Speaking in an interview on Peace FM, the prominent film producer questioned why no ministers or official representatives from state institutions were present to honor the legacy of one of Ghana's most celebrated screen icons. He lamented that such a lack of visibility from the state suggests a disregard for the significant contributions made by pioneers of the nation's creative industry.

Highlighting the actress’s storied career, Nyamekye emphasized that Grace Nortey was more than just a performer; she was a cultural ambassador who helped define Ghanaian cinema for generations. He argued that, at the very least, leadership from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture or the National Film Authority should have been present to offer a formal tribute during the burial. The producer’s comments have resonated with many in the arts community who feel that the state often fails to provide adequate recognition to veteran entertainers who dedicated their lives to building the sector during an era with fewer resources.

The burial of Grace Nortey was attended by numerous colleagues from the film and creative arts industry who gathered to bid farewell to the veteran actress. However, Nyamekye’s public critique has reignited a long-standing debate regarding the relationship between the government and the creative arts sector. As industry players continue to call for better welfare and institutional support for aging artists, the perceived snub at Nortey’s final rites serves as a focal point for those demanding more consistent state engagement with Ghana's cultural heritage and its practitioners.