The National Film Authority (NFA) has issued a stern warning to television stations in Ghana over the unauthorised broadcast of films, series, and other creative content, stressing that such acts violate copyright laws and undermine the creative industry.
In a statement released by the Executive Secretary, Kafui Danku-Pitcher, the NFA expressed concern over the increasing complaints from local and international content creators about the illegal airing of their works on Ghanaian TV platforms.
The Authority emphasised that these actions breach the Copyright Act, 2005 (Act 690), which prohibits the public broadcast of protected content without permission from rights holders.
“In recent months, the NFA has received numerous complaints from both Ghanaian and international content owners about the illegal airing of films, series, and other creative works on traditional and digital TV platforms in Ghana. These infringements violate content creators’ rights and discourage investment and creativity in Ghana’s creative industries,” the statement read.
Danku-Pitcher warned that offending TV stations risk license suspension or revocation if found guilty of copyright infringement. The NFA added that it is collaborating with relevant agencies to investigate and take legal action against violators.
“To this end, the Authority is working closely with relevant institutions to investigate and take appropriate actions against television stations that air content without authorisation from the rights owner or rights holder. Offenders risk having their licenses suspended or revoked,” the statement noted.
The Authority urged broadcasters to secure proper licensing agreements before airing content, respect intellectual property rights, and ensure that all films are classified by the NFA before broadcast.
“Ghana’s creative economy holds significant potential for national development, job creation, and international recognition. However, its growth depends on the protection and respect for intellectual property rights.
“The NFA urges all television stations and media platforms to license content legally, fairly compensate creators, and partner in building a thriving and lawful creative industry,” the statement concluded.
Source: www.ghanaweb.com
