NFA Warns TV Stations Over Unauthorized Content Use

The National Film Authority (NFA) has issued a stern warning to television stations across Ghana, emphasizing that persistent unauthorized broadcasting of creative works could lead to the suspension or revocation of their licenses.

In a statement, the NFA expressed alarm over the increasing misuse of copyrighted films, series, and other audiovisual materials without approval from content owners.

The Authority noted that it has received a growing number of complaints from both local and international rights holders concerning the illegal airing of their intellectual property on traditional and digital TV platforms.

According to the NFA, such practices are a clear violation of Ghana’s Copyright Act, 2005 (Act 690), and pose a major threat to the sustainability and growth of the country’s creative industry.

“As the national regulator of the film and audiovisual sector, the NFA is committed to protecting the rights of content producers. We are working closely with relevant institutions to investigate and take appropriate actions against television stations involved in unauthorized airing. Offenders risk having their licenses suspended or revoked.”

The Authority stressed that protecting intellectual property is essential to safeguarding the investments of content creators and building a viable creative economy that can drive national development and job creation.

Television stations have been urged to immediately regularize their operations by securing appropriate licensing agreements, ensuring all films and audiovisual works are properly classified, and adhering strictly to ethical broadcasting standards.

The NFA also called on media houses to fairly compensate content creators, highlighting that respect for intellectual property is crucial if Ghana’s creative sector is to achieve international recognition and success.

Story by Adwoa S. Danso