The Ghanaian government has announced plans to crack down on and sanction local television stations that broadcast Nigerian films without proper authorization.
James Gardiner, the Deputy CEO of the Ghana National Film Authority (NFA), revealed the upcoming regulatory crackdown during a recorded discussion with prominent Nigerian film producer Uchenna Mbunabo. The conversation was sparked by Mbunabo calling out Ghanaian broadcasters for downloading intellectual property directly from YouTube to air on free-to-air television without paying royalties or obtaining licenses.
“I noticed that Ghanaian TV stations, the way they are stealing our films and showing them for free with impunity. Is it legalized in your country for TV stations to go on YouTube, download people’s sweat and show it for free?”
Uchenna Mbunabo, Nigerian Filmmaker asked.
Complete overhaul of broadcasting licenses underway
Responding to the allegations, Gardiner clarified that the practice is entirely illegal. He admitted that copyright enforcement has faced setbacks because a significant number of these stations operate digitally without physical, traceable offices.
To curb this widespread piracy, the NFA is collaborating with key regulatory bodies, including the Ministry of Communications, the National Media Commission (NMC), and the National Communications Authority (NCA). Together, they are drafting a law to revoke all current television broadcasting licenses, forcing every station to reapply under strict new copyright compliance guidelines.
