The Eyes of Ghana Shines Light on Hidden Archives of Ghana’s Independence History
Documentary tells powerful story of a cameraman who captured Africa’s defining moments
By: Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi / Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada 20/2/2026
A remarkable documentary exploring Ghana’s independence story and Africa’s historical transformation has drawn global attention following its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2025. The Eyes of Ghana reveals the extraordinary life of veteran Ghanaian cameraman Chris Hesse, whose preserved film archive offers a rare window into the birth of modern Africa.
Directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Ben Proudfoot, the documentary follows Hesse’s mission to protect and return historical footage documenting Ghana’s early years of independence and major political events across the continent.
A lifetime spent documenting history
At the center of the film is Chris Hesse, who served as the personal cinematographer to Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first president and a leading figure in Africa’s liberation movement.
Over several decades, Hesse recorded key national events, political transitions, and historic moments that shaped Ghana and the wider African continent during the 1950s and 1960s. His collection includes more than 1,300 films, many of which remained hidden from public view for years.
The documentary follows Hesse, now in his 90s, as he faces declining eyesight while working urgently to preserve and repatriate the archive — ensuring that future generations can access an authentic visual record of Africa’s journey toward independence.
Race against time to preserve Africa’s memory
A central theme of the film is the urgency of safeguarding history. As Hesse struggles with failing vision, he pushes forward to restore fragile film reels and secure their return to Ghana.
The story highlights the importance of visual storytelling in shaping national identity and historical understanding. Through Hesse’s lens, audiences witness not only political milestones but also the human experiences behind Africa’s transformation.
The documentary emphasizes how preserving these images could reshape global perspectives on African history and reclaim narratives often told by outsiders.
Global collaboration behind the project
The film received international recognition partly due to its high-profile backing. It was executive produced by former U.S. President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama through their media company Higher Ground Productions.
Their involvement reflects the documentary’s broader message about cultural preservation, identity, and the global significance of African history.
Impact on Ghanaian culture and global audiences
Beyond telling the story of one man’s life, The Eyes of Ghana explores themes of memory, heritage, and the power of cinema to preserve truth. The film has sparked conversations about the need to protect African archives and celebrate local storytellers who documented the continent’s most important moments.
For many viewers, the documentary serves as both a historical record and a tribute to the resilience of African voices. It also reinforces the importance of reclaiming cultural heritage and ensuring that Africa’s history is preserved by its own people.
A story of legacy and national pride
Ultimately, the documentary stands as a powerful reflection on Ghana’s journey and the role of storytelling in shaping national identity. Through Chris Hesse’s work, a hidden chapter of history emerges — one that connects past struggles for freedom with present efforts to preserve cultural memory.
The Eyes of Ghana not only celebrates a pioneering filmmaker but also reminds the world of the enduring importance of safeguarding Africa’s historical legacy for generations to come.
