Ernest Kofi Abbeyquaye

In the 1960s, Abbeyquaye attended the Arts Council Acting School, where he honed his acting skills. Later, he pursued a Major in Drama and Theatre Arts at the University of Ghana, School of Performing Arts. His time as a student at the university exposed him to the rich world of theater and laid the foundation for his future endeavors in the film industry.

Abbeyquaye's thirst for knowledge led him to pursue postgraduate professional training between 1972 and 1975 at the prestigious National Film and Television School in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, UK. After completing his training, he briefly worked with Samuelson Film Services Ltd. in the UK, gaining valuable industry experience.

In 1978, Abbeyquaye embarked on a teaching career as a tutor at the National Film Institute (NAFTI), where he shared his expertise with aspiring filmmakers. His dedication and talent propelled him to become the Deputy Managing Director and the first Head of Studies at NAFTI.

During his tenure at the Ghana Films Industry Corporation (GFIC), Abbeyquaye served as the Executive Producer, overseeing the production of various films. His meticulous approach and commitment to quality helped raise the standards of Ghanaian cinema and contributed to the growth of the industry.

Abbeyquaye's remarkable achievements have earned him recognition in the film industry. In 2018, he was honored with the Television and Film Pioneer Award in London, UK, at the GUBA Award ceremony. This prestigious accolade acknowledged his pioneering efforts and enduring contributions to the field.

As a UNESCO consultant, Abbeyquaye also dedicated his expertise to promoting film and television as tools for rural development. He conducted interviews with a diverse range of individuals, including academics, military generals, politicians, heads of states, farmers, market women, workers, and children. His work aimed to harness the power of visual storytelling to bring about positive change in communities.

Abbeyquaye took on diverse roles in the film and theater world, showcasing his versatility as a director, coordinator, fixer, and even as an actor. Some of his notable works include:

1. Local co-ordinator for Yorkshire TV in Ghana during the production of "The Dying of the Light" (1992).
2. Director of the stage musical and drama production "King Lions Law" in 1995.
3. Director of the Ghana-Nigeria stage musical drama "Fairy Tale Africa," which was earmarked for a tour in the United States of America.
4. Local fixer for Screen Two: "Deadly Voyage" (1996), an HBO-BBC production in Ghana.
5. Co-director of the pilot production "Hopes on the Horizon," a collaboration between Blackside (Boston) and Multi-Media Africa, funded by the Ford Foundation.

Currently, Abbeyquaye remains active in the film industry, working with Trumpet Africa Productions and Emerald Films.

In 2001, Abbeyquaye played a significant role, along with other filmmakers, in the creation of the Ghana Academy of Film and Television Arts (GAFTA). Ernest Kofi Abbeyquaye's filmography boasts notable works such as "A Mother's Revenge" (1994), "The Other Side of the Rich" (1992), and "Confessions" (1993).

Abbeyquaye's commitment to storytelling led him to work on various projects, both locally and internationally. His involvement in productions such as "Hamele: The Prince of Tongo," "The Chronicles of Odumkrom – The Headmaster," and "No Tears for Ananse" further showcased his passion for bringing narratives to life.