The African film industry has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the past two decades, evolving from a niche market into a vibrant hub of creativity and storytelling.
With the rise of platforms like Netflix showcasing African narratives to a global audience, filmmakers are under increased pressure to produce high-quality content that meets international standards.
However, alongside this growth, there have been alarming reports of unsafe working conditions, inadequate safety protocols, and a lack of support for those in the industry.
The growing calls for safety reforms in the African film industry are a response to these concerns and a necessary step toward fostering a safe and sustainable environment for filmmakers and actors alike.
Following the news of Nollywood actor Godwin Nnadiekwe’s hospitalization after sustaining internal bleeding from an on-set kick by colleague Zubby Michael, Ghanaian actor Van Vicker has added his voice to the growing call for better safety standards in African film productions.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, the renowned thespian described the incident as “extremely disquieting,” while emphasizing the urgent need for structured rehearsals and proper safety protocols—especially in film settings that lack insurance, body doubles, stunt actors, and protective rigging.
“The headline about an actor sustaining internal bleeding (I am yet to authenticate) under another actor stumping (not maliciously) him in his torso during filming is extremely disquieting.”
Van Vicker
While acknowledging that the act may not have been intentional, Vicker stressed that any scene involving physical contact should never be left to chance.
“I personally, consistently insist that outraged scenes that have potential contact or actual contact with another actor or actors should be rehearsed, especially in our film setting where there is no insurance, no body doubles, no stunt actors and where more often than not real props are used (knife, etc).”
Van Vicker
He admitted that some filmmakers argue against rehearsals to preserve spontaneity and authenticity, but believes safety must come first. “I have a reserved concurrence,” he said, “What’s the fate of the actor in situations where there is zero rigging to protect the actor in perilous moments?”
The African film industry, often referred to as “Nollywood” in Nigeria or “Kannywood” in Northern Nigeria, is one of the largest film industries in the world by volume. It has produced thousands of films annually, contributing significantly to local economies and cultural representation.
However, this rapid growth has often come at the expense of safety and welfare. Reports of accidents on set, inadequate medical facilities, and insufficient training for stunt performers are becoming increasingly common.
The lack of a structured regulatory framework exacerbates these issues, leaving many filmmakers vulnerable to exploitation and unsafe working conditions.
Need for Safety Reforms in the African Film Industry
Several critical factors underscore the call for safety reforms in the African film industry. The health and safety of cast and crew members should be paramount.
The absence of established safety protocols leads to tragic accidents, as seen in various cases across the continent where injuries and even fatalities have occurred during filming.
Implementing comprehensive safety regulations would not only protect individuals but also enhance the overall reputation of the industry.
Van Vicker highlighted the importance of planning and rehearsing violent or action scenes, stating that genuine acting comes from knowing what to expect, following direction, and still making the scene look real.
He further stressed that when rehearsals are done and safety measures are in place, the responsibility falls off the shoulders of producers, showing they were not negligent.
“I believe that great acting is one where you know what to expect, because you have read the script, you have been given directives by the director, etc, and yet you make it all believable. This incident should not be taken casually. It should be highlighted deliberately by industry players, the fourth estate, and well-meaning film lovers as a red flag… measures [must] be put in place to ensure such adversities don’t get repeated.”
Van Vicker
Van Vicker asserted that the future of African cinema isn’t just dependent on technical quality or performances, but also on the health and safety of those who bring stories to life. “Long live African films. Long live actors. God bless us all,” he added.
The mental health of those in the film industry is an often-overlooked aspect of safety. The pressure to deliver high-quality content under tight deadlines leads to stress and burnout.
Mental health resources and support systems must be integrated into the industry to ensure filmmakers and actors work in a healthy environment.
Furthermore, the international community is increasingly scrutinizing the working conditions in the African film industry. As global platforms invest in African content, they are also beginning to demand adherence to international safety standards.
Failure to implement necessary reforms could lead to a loss of funding and partnerships, ultimately stunting the growth of the industry.
Countries with established film industries, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, have implemented comprehensive safety regulations that serve as a model for African nations.
African filmmakers and industry stakeholders are to learn from these examples, advocating for similar frameworks tailored to the unique challenges and cultural contexts of the continent.
The growing calls for safety reforms in the African film industry represent a pivotal moment in its evolution. As the industry continues to flourish and gain international recognition, it is imperative to prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals involved in the filmmaking process.
Implementing comprehensive safety regulations, addressing mental health concerns, and learning from successful global models will not only protect those who contribute to this vibrant industry but also solidify its reputation on the world stage.
By embracing these reforms, the African film industry ensures its growth is sustainable, equitable, and, above all, safe for generations to come.
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