Ghanaian film producer Samuel Darko, known in the industry as Samdakus, has expressed displeasure over the use of the name Kumawood in a new filmmakers’ association formed in the Ashanti Region.

The group, known as the Kumawood Ashanti Film Association, was recently established under the leadership of the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, to unify and promote the region’s film industry.

In an interview with Kwame Dadzie on Hitz 103.9 FM’s entertainment show dubbed Daybreak Hitz, Samdakus explained that although he was not initially consulted, he is now open to joining the association. However, he strongly objects to the use of the name Kumawood, which he says he created and registered for his business ventures.

“I am not part of it because I didn’t hear about it initially. That was the reason why Seancity came and interviewed me and later on I got to know about it,” he said.

Despite this, he confirmed he is open to being part of the association.

“I am ready for it. Me I am a producer, director and an actor. So I am fully part of it,” he added.

Samdakus maintained that while he supports the initiative, any use of the name Kumawood must come with formal negotiations.

“I don’t think want them to use the name ‘Kumawood.’ We are still talking about it. We haven’t agreed on certain things. I have registered the name to do a lot of things. So if they want to use the name, at least there has to be a negotiation,” he explained.

When asked if he wanted financial compensation, he clarified: “I don’t need money, but I need recognition. I just need a recognition that I am the founder of the name. That is it. I don’t need money.”

He also revealed that he recently held discussions with a representative from the Ashanti Regional Minister’s office.

“I received a representative from the Ashanti Region Minister at my office about two weeks ago so we are discussing something. It’s not yet concluded, that is why I don’t want to talk about it,” he stated.

About Kumawood

Kumawood refers to the informal name given to the local movie industry based in Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti Region. Known for its Akan-language productions, the industry rose to prominence in the mid-2000s, quickly becoming a vibrant and influential force in Ghana’s entertainment landscape. It has produced hundreds of films, often characterised by their fast-paced production cycles, humour, cultural relevance, and accessibility to local audiences.

The name Kumawood was coined to mirror the glamour and identity of Hollywood and Nollywood, with a uniquely Ghanaian twist. Samdakus is widely credited as the originator of the term, which has since become a brand identity for many filmmakers and actors from Kumasi and beyond.

Samdakus’ works

Samuel Darko, through his production company Samdackus Initiatives, has been behind several hit Kumawood films and television projects. Some of his popular works include: Kumasi Yonko, Hard Target, Obonsam Besu, Ohia Asem, among others.

He is also the founder of the Kumawood Akoben Festival and Awards, an event that celebrated excellence in the Ashanti Region’s creative industry. The festival highlighted achievements in film, music, and other creative arts, aiming to promote local talents and encourage cultural preservation.