UniMAC-IFT screens historic footage of Ghana’s independence

The University of Media, Arts and Communication’s Institute of Film and Television (UniMAC-IFT) is hosting a screening of rare archival footage documenting Ghana’s journey to independence and its early years of nationhood. Organized in collaboration with the UNESCO Ghana Office, the event scheduled for October 30, 2023, focuses on the preservation efforts and legacy of veteran cinematographer Rev. Dr. Chris Hesse. This initiative aims to highlight the critical role of film in documenting national memory and the urgent need to protect Ghana's audiovisual heritage for future generations.

The screening will showcase essential films from Ghana’s formative years, featuring historic milestones such as the independence celebrations and the inauguration of the First Republican Parliament. Rev. Dr. Chris Hesse, whose lens captured many of these pivotal moments, is at the heart of the event. H.E. Edmond Moukala, Head of the UNESCO Office in Ghana, will deliver the keynote address, underscoring the international importance of maintaining cultural and historical records through multimedia formats as part of a global effort to protect intangible heritage.

Beyond the visual exhibition, the event serves as a platform to discuss the technical and cultural challenges involved in preserving historic visuals. Participants will explore the cultural implications of failing to safeguard these assets, which serve as primary sources for understanding the country's socio-political evolution. By bringing these rare records to the public eye, UniMAC-IFT and UNESCO hope to foster a greater appreciation for audiovisual archiving as a vital component of Ghana’s broader strategy for preserving its history and national identity.