Kwame Kodah (also known as Kwame Koda) is a self-taught filmmaker in Accra who has quietly built a portfolio of three independent short films; each written, shot, and funded out of his own pocket. Now he’s taking the next leap: a short comedic film titled Kweku Ananse, rooted in the legendary Akan folktale trickster. This project is a “step up in scale and quality,” aiming to be “a culturally rooted, visually strong film that can travel internationally through festivals and digital platforms”. In his own words, Koda says he has “independently written, shot, and funded three short films” and is now inviting community support for this new folktale adaptation. His journey from small DIY shorts to a folklore-inspired comedy exemplifies the spirit of African indie filmmaking: resourceful, grassroots, and driven by storytelling passion.
Ananse (Kweku Ananse) is an enduring symbol of wisdom, wit and cunning in Akan folklore. Often depicted as a clever spider, Anansi or “Kweku Ananse” is revered in Ghana and throughout West Africa as the totem of stories and wisdom. His tales were carried across the Atlantic during the slave trade, making him “one of the most important characters of West African, African American and West Indian folklore”. By choosing Kweku Ananse as his subject, Kodah is tapping into a narrative tradition that connects the African diaspora. These spider-folklores have long been beloved both at home and abroad, teaching lessons of cleverness and resilience. Kodah’s film promises to put a modern, comedic twist on these themes, reviving an Ananse story with fresh humor and heart. In an era when many in the diaspora crave authentic African stories, Kweku Ananse aims to bridge generations and continents with laughter and cultural pride.
Kwame Kodah isn’t new to this scene: he’s a photographer-turned-filmmaker who built his skills “through hands-on storytelling and production”. His first three shorts explored Ghanaian life and identity on a shoestring budget, proving he could get projects made without big studio backing. Now, with Kweku Ananse, he’s scaling up his ambition. According to Kodah’s own post, this new film is a significant leap; a chance to craft “an important African story for a global audience”. He envisions it traveling on the festival circuit and streaming platforms, sharing Ghanaian folklore worldwide. By self-funding everything so far, Kodah shows the determination of a grassroots artist. His journey resonates with many in the diaspora who remember hearing Ananse stories at home and now want to see them on screen. Now he’s turning to the community to help make the leap from passion project to polished production.
Ananse (Kweku Ananse) isn’t just any storybook character; he’s the spider god of the Akan people, embodying wisdom, cunning, and the power of storytelling. His cunning tricks often backfire in comic ways, making Anansi tales both entertaining and rich with meaning. By centering a film on Kweku Ananse, Kodah taps into a deep cultural wellspring. Folklorists note that Ananse’s adventures were traditionally passed down orally across West Africa; telling these stories is central to community and heritage. The African diaspora in particular finds resonance in Anansi’s journey: his tales of outwitting stronger foes became symbols of resilience and identity for enslaved Africans in the Americas. Kodah’s project thus has significance beyond Ghana; it speaks to all Africans abroad who grew up hearing spider tales and want to keep that legacy alive. In this new comedic take, younger audiences might see their own family legends brought to life with a wink, while elders recognize the timeless themes. It’s a celebration of culture that invites everyone of African descent to smile, remember, and support.
The film Kweku Ananse is being produced by Kodah’s own VNA Productions, emphasizing its independent, grassroots nature. Every cedi raised will go directly into hands-on production and post-production costs, not into corporate pockets. Kodah is serious about quality: he promises a “visually strong” movie built on authentic costumes, local locations, and professional editing. But this is still a community-driven effort. He’s posted on social media to rally support, explaining how each contribution helps “bring an important African story to a global audience”. In doing so, he’s turning Kweku Ananse into a project for everyone to own a piece of. Africans everywhere, especially in the diaspora, can feel pride knowing their folklore is being shared by one of their own filmmakers. The tone of Kodah’s appeal is inspirational and upbeat; a call to action that highlights the creative, do-it-yourself spirit of indie cinema.
Kodah’s campaign has gone live, and everyone in the community is invited to chip in. He has set up a GoFundMe page (linked through his social media) and has even shared direct banking details for supporters. The simplest way to help is by donating to VNA Productions’ account at First Atlantic Bank (Account 2222591101016). Every contribution, no matter how small, is a boost toward cameras, crew, costumes, and the final edit. Besides money, spreading the word is hugely valuable. Share his posts on social media, use the hashtag #KwekuAnanse, and tell friends about this unique film. Follow Kwame Kodah’s updates on Instagram and X/Twitter (@kwamekodah) and watch for news of premieres or behind-the-scenes content. Together, the African diaspora can turn this independent film into a shared success.
Donate: Send support to VNA Productions via First Atlantic Bank (Acct. 2222591101016). Your contribution funds camera, cast, and post-production for Kweku Ananse.
Spread the Word: Follow @kwamekodah on Instagram/X (Twitter) for updates. Share the campaign and passion for African storytelling with the community.
Stay Involved: Look out for the official fundraising pages (GoFundMe link on Kodah’s profiles) and local screenings. Every view, every share, every cedi brings this culturally significant film closer to reality.
In the spirit of Anansi’s own lessons, Kweku Ananse is about using creativity and wit to change the game. By supporting Kwame Kodah’s vision, the African diaspora can ensure these beloved tales live on; not just as bedtime stories, but as vibrant cinema that entertains and educates. This campaign is more than fundraising; it’s a movement to value African folklore, independent voices, and community action. As Kodah says, bringing this film to life relies on our support “as I take this next step.” The collective effort of contributors will make Kweku Ananse a reality, showing the world that African myths still thrive when nurtured by the people. Let us come together to celebrate Ghana’s spider-spirit and champion a homegrown artist; after all, these stories belong to us all.