Desist or have your licence revoked – National Film Authority to Ghanaian TV stations over piracy saga
The Authority described the practice as a violation of copyright laws and a serious threat to the growth and development of Ghana’s creative industry.
In a statement signed by the Executive Secretary, Kafui Danku-Pitcher, and sighted by GhanaWeb, they expressed concern about the growing trend of copyright violations by some Ghanaian TV stations.
The statement emphasised that such activities undermine the efforts of content creators and discourage much-needed investment in Ghana’s creative space.
“These infringements violate content creators’ rights and discourage investment and creativity in Ghana’s creative industries,” the statement pointed out.
The warning from the NFA follows complaints from filmmakers, particularly Nigerian filmmakers, who have recently accused some Ghanaian TV stations of broadcasting their films without permission.
Pointing to the increasing number of grievances received, the NFA noted, “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.”
The NFA further assured stakeholders that it is collaborating with relevant agencies to carry out investigations and take strict action against television stations found guilty of such illegal practices.
They warned that serious consequences await Ghanaian media outlets who flout the law.
“Offenders risk having their licenses suspended or revoked,” the NFA cautioned.
The statement from the NFA also served as a reminder to all broadcasters about their legal obligations under the Copyright Act, 2005 (Act 690) and other applicable regulations.
It emphasised that the law clearly prohibits any public performance or broadcasting of protected content without the express permission of the rights holder.
“The NFA reminds all television stations that the Copyright Act, 2005 (Act 690), and other applicable laws provide clear guidelines on using protected works. These laws explicitly state that any public performance or broadcast of copyrighted content without the rights holder’s permission is illegal and punishable by law,” the statement noted.
They further urged television operators to ensure their content is properly licensed, encouraging them to respect intellectual property rights and to have all films and audiovisual materials classified before airing them to the public.
The NFA also emphasised the wider impact of protecting creative works on national development, job creation, and global recognition.
“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.
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