Ghana's film community has lost another of its members. Anthony Blackmore Ayivor, President of the Volta Movie Makers Association of Ghana (VMMAG), has died, according to a report by YEN.com.gh.
The National Film Authority (NFA) announced his passing on its official Instagram page on Monday, October 26, 2026. "The National Film Authority (NFA) mourns the passing of Mr Anthony Blackmore Ayivor," the statement said, according to YEN.com.gh.
"His passing is a loss to the film fraternity," the NFA added.
The report did not state the date or cause of his death.
Anthony Blackmore Ayivor, also known as Anthony Blackmore, was an actor, producer and scriptwriter. As president of VMMAG, he led the association representing filmmakers in the Volta Region.
The NFA said he was passionate about "using film to educate and inspire social change," according to YEN.com.gh.
He was involved in the launch of Ghana Cinema Week in the Volta Region in 2024, an initiative aimed at promoting Ghanaian films and encouraging audiences to watch local productions.
Ghana's film industry is often associated with Accra and Kumasi, home to the country's best-known production hubs. But regional associations such as VMMAG play an important role in developing talent, telling local stories and creating opportunities for filmmakers outside the main cities.
In the Volta Region, filmmakers have produced movies that reflect local culture, languages, traditions and social issues. Regional leaders like Blackmore have worked to connect these producers with national institutions and audiences.
The NFA was established under the Development and Classification of Film Act, 2016 (Act 935), to regulate, develop and promote Ghana's film industry. It works with associations across the country on issues such as classification, training, distribution and funding.
The authority's public tribute reflects Blackmore's standing as a regional industry leader.
His death comes during a painful period for Ghana's screen industry. Last week, actor and broadcaster Kwame Dzokoto, known as Judge Koboo in Efiewura, died in Tarkwa, and Nollywood mourned veteran actor Francis Duru.
Industry members have expressed sadness on social media, with many recalling the contributions of figures who worked behind the scenes to build the industry, often with limited resources and little public recognition.
Blackmore's focus on film as a tool for education and social change reflects a tradition in Ghanaian filmmaking. Local films have often tackled issues such as family conflict, health, morality and community life, and many filmmakers see their work as a way to inform and inspire audiences as well as entertain them.
Associations such as VMMAG bring together actors, producers, directors and technicians in a region. They help members access training, share equipment and resources, negotiate with distributors and broadcasters, and engage with national bodies such as the NFA.
Leaders of these associations often work largely behind the scenes, organising events, mentoring young talent and advocating for their members. Their work rarely makes headlines, but it plays a key part in keeping regional film industries alive.
Ghana Cinema Week is an initiative designed to encourage Ghanaians to watch local films in cinemas and on other platforms, and to celebrate the country's filmmakers. Taking the launch to regions such as the Volta Region helps extend the campaign beyond Accra and connect with audiences and filmmakers across the country.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced. Talk Talk extends its condolences to his family, friends, colleagues at the Volta Movie Makers Association and the wider Ghanaian film community.
