In a visionary drive to catalyse job creation and harness creative potential, the Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Dr Kingsley Agyemang, has hosted acclaimed American philanthropist Dr Marie Lemelle and Hollywood actor Dr Hassan Rasheed, best known for his role as a King’s Guard in Black Panther—for high-level discussions centred on arts-led development in the constituency.

The collaboration seeks to establish one of Africa’s largest film studios in Abuakwa South—a game-changing initiative designed to provide employment opportunities for the youth, nurture local talent, and enhance Ghana’s position in the global creative economy.

During their visit, the delegation paid a courtesy call to the revered Ofori Panin Palace, immersing themselves in the cultural richness and traditions of the Akyem Abuakwa state.

The visit was both symbolic and strategic, aimed at reconnecting the African diaspora with their heritage while exploring sustainable creative industry partnerships that can unlock long-term employment avenues for young Ghanaians.

Dr Marie Lemelle, a distinguished publicist and philanthropist, reaffirmed her steadfast commitment to supporting the creative arts ecosystem in Abuakwa South. She disclosed that advanced plans are underway to develop one of the continent’s most expansive film academies and expressed strong optimism about selecting Abuakwa South as the ideal location for this ambitious undertaking.

She explained that the envisioned creative hub will offer training in various technical disciplines such as costume design, sound production, and video engineering, aligning with global industry standards. The overarching goal, she emphasised, is to elevate Ghana and Africa to the forefront of the international creative arts stage, stimulate economic development, and address the pressing issue of youth unemployment.

Dr Hassan Rasheed described the visit as a profoundly emotional and cultural reconnection. He called on Africans in the diaspora to return and support development efforts, pointing to the untapped potential in communities like Abuakwa South.

He pledged his continued advocacy in drawing global attention and investment to Ghana’s burgeoning creative economy.

Dr Kingsley Agyemang, in turn, expressed deep appreciation for the visit, describing the initiative as a transformative partnership with far-reaching implications. He underscored the project’s capacity to position the constituency as a beacon of economic empowerment and cultural renaissance.

Highlighting Abuakwa South’s strategic positioning between Ghana’s administrative capital, Accra, and its commercial heart, Kumasi, the MP assured stakeholders of his office’s readiness to facilitate land acquisition and ensure the requisite documentation to expedite the project’s implementation.

He reiterated his unwavering commitment to creating sustainable job opportunities for the youth and contributing meaningfully to Ghana’s overall economic advancement.