Ghanaian cinema has reached a new global peak as the critically acclaimed feature film “The Fisherman” has officially been nominated for the 2026 NAACP Image Awards.
The film, which has been making waves on the international festival circuit since its debut, secured a spot in the Outstanding International Motion Picture category. This nomination places Ghana side-by-side with some of the most compelling cinematic works from across the globe, further cementing the country’s position as a powerhouse of African storytelling.
Directed and written by the visionary Zoey Martinson, “The Fisherman” is a whimsical, heart-tugging comedy-drama that tells the story of Atta Oko (played by the brilliant Ricky Adelayitar), a traditional Ghanaian fisherman forced into retirement. In a magical twist of fate, he is partnered with a “bougie” talking fish and a group of quirky associates as they navigate the vibrant, chaotic streets of Accra to fulfill a lifelong dream.
The film’s journey to the NAACP Image Awards has been nothing short of legendary. It made history as the first Ghanaian film to be an official selection at the Venice Biennale Film Festival, where it won the prestigious UNESCO Fellini Medal. It also dominated the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), where Zoey Martinson walked away with the Best Director and Best Narrative Feature awards.
Produced by Kofi Owusu Afriyie (Luu Vision Media) and Korey Jackson, with Hollywood star Yvonne Orji serving as executive producer, the film boasts a stellar cast that showcases both veteran and emerging Ghanaian talent.
Lead actor Ricky Adelayitar—who recently won Best Actor at the Regal Film Festival—is joined by breakout star and DWP Academy dancer Endurance Grand, alongside William Lamptey, Kiki Romi, and Nigerian comedian Dulo Harris. The film also features cameos and supporting roles from industry greats like Fred Amugi and Roselyn Ngissah.
This news comes on the heels of another major achievement for the film, as its casting director, Mawuko Kuadzi, also earned a nomination at the Artios Awards (Casting Society of America) for his work on the project
The NAACP Image Awards, often referred to as the “Black Oscars,” celebrate outstanding achievements and performances of people of colour in the arts. For a Ghanaian production to be recognized in the Outstanding International Motion Picture category alongside films like 40 Acres and Souleymane’s Story is a massive win for the local industry.
The 57th NAACP Image Awards are set to take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. The ceremony will be hosted by Deon Cole and broadcast live on BET and CBS.
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