The National Film Authority (NFA) has issued a warning that it will revoke the licenses of television stations found broadcasting content without proper authorization.
This action is intended to enforce adherence to broadcasting regulations and protect intellectual property rights. The NFA’s firm position aims to curb unauthorized broadcasting and ensure that TV stations operate within legal frameworks.
The warning follows growing concerns over the rampant unauthorized use and broadcast of creative works across several Ghanaian television stations.
In a statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Kafui Danku Pitcher, the Authority emphasized that such practices violate copyright laws and threaten the integrity and sustainability of Ghana’s creative industry.
The NFA revealed it has received numerous complaints from both local and international content owners about the unauthorized airing of movies, series, and other creative materials on traditional and digital TV platforms in Ghana.
“These violations infringe upon the rights of content creators and discourage investment and innovation within the country’s creative sectors,” the statement noted.
The NFA reminded all television stations that the Copyright Act, 2005 (Act 690), along with other relevant laws, clearly outlines the rules governing the use of protected works. According to the Authority, any public performance or broadcast of copyrighted material without obtaining permission from the rights holder is illegal and subject to legal sanctions.
Earlier this week, Kafui Danku Pitcher, alongside the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam George, pledged their support to Nigerian producer and actress, Bimbo Ademoye. This commitment followed Bimbo Ademoye’s public complaints on Instagram regarding the unauthorized broadcast of her films on Ghanaian TV channels.
As the regulator of Ghana’s film and audiovisual industry, the NFA reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rights of content creators. In collaboration with relevant agencies, the Authority will investigate and penalize TV stations airing unauthorized content to ensure accountability and uphold intellectual property protections.
“Stations found guilty risk having their licenses suspended or permanently revoked,” the NFA cautioned.
See the full statement below:
