Lil Win invests US$500,000 in new film “Ibrahim Traoré”, aims to put Ghanaian cinema on global stage

The Ghanaian actor and film-maker Lil Win, known in private life as Kwadwo Nkansah, has made headlines once again – this time for pouring a jaw-dropping $500,000 into his latest cinematic project, Ibrahim Traoré, a film he believes could redefine Africa’s place in the global film industry.

In an interview with Graphic Showbiz on 28 June, Lil Win disclosed that the project, based on the real-life story of Burkina Faso’s transitional leader, was the most ambitious and financially demanding venture of his career.

“Captain Ibrahim Traoré took every ounce of effort, money and support I could gather,” he said. “I had to take a loan of about $400,000, in addition to my own resources and help from others.”

Investing in culture, not just cinema

Lil Win sees Ibrahim Traoré not merely as a film, but as a cultural and historical statement.

Like his previous hit A Country Called Ghana, which cost $300,000 to produce and is currently streaming on Amazon, this new film is rooted deeply in authentic African storytelling – a strategy he says is essential for success on the international stage.

“If you want your movie to be accepted globally, it has to showcase Africa – our culture, our traditions, our folklore. That is what makes us unique,” he explained.

He challenged sceptics who question the size of the budgets behind his films, asserting that serious investment is required to meet global production standards.

“Many Ghanaians don’t believe us when we mention how much our movies cost because they don’t see the real sacrifices – the long hours, the stress, the details. In Nigeria, some films cost $1 million. In Hollywood, it’s $30 million or more.

“Why should Ghanaian stories be made with peanuts?”

Struggles behind the scenes

While the numbers are impressive, the journey to bring Ibrahim Traoré to life was anything but smooth.

Lil Win described the project as one of the toughest challenges he has ever faced, citing production delays, resource shortages and even attempts to block the film’s release.

“Every detail – from costumes to locations – had to meet international standards. It wasn’t easy. YouTube or TV releases are simpler. But when you aim for international platforms, it’s a whole different game.”

Despite the setbacks, his passion for storytelling and commitment to quality carried him through.

“Challenges are inevitable when you aim high. But true passion pushes you through. That’s what it takes to create something meaningful.”

Call for industry support

With tourism and culture becoming central pillars of Ghana’s non-traditional exports, Lil Win is calling for increased industry support, investment and collaboration to help Ghanaian films compete globally.

“You can’t expect international success on a shoestring budget. It takes real investment to tell our stories at the level they deserve,” he said.