The National Communications Authority (NCA) has launched a major enforcement operation targeting non-compliant FM broadcasting stations, ordering dozens of outlets to suspend operations for breaching multiple regulatory guidelines.
In an official statement, the NCA disclosed that the action was prompted by widespread and persistent violations of licensing regulations under Regulations 54 and 56 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991), as well as conditions tied to FM broadcasting authorizations.
“This action follows a directive issued by the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, mandating the NCA to enforce applicable sanctions on stations found to be in violation of the regulations in the recent audit conducted by the NCA to ensure full compliance with licensing and operational requirements in the broadcasting sector.”
National Communications Authority (NCA)
The NCA emphasized that its enforcement is being rolled out in phases, targeting stations identified in its recent Frequency Audit Report.
The first phase has already affected a significant number of broadcasters across the country.
Meanwhile, the NCA’s investigation uncovered various infractions committed by FM broadcasting stations, leading to the current crackdown.
In its breakdown, the NCA revealed that 28 stations have been operating with expired authorizations, blatantly disregarding earlier orders to cease broadcasting.
These actions violate Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), which mandates all operators to hold valid authorizations before engaging in broadcasting activities.
In addition, 14 FM stations that were previously issued Notices of Revocation for failing to establish operations within two years of receiving their authorizations have continued broadcasting despite their non-compliance.
While some of these stations had requested inspections to rectify operational deficiencies, the NCA stated that inspections remain incomplete due to unresolved lapses, thus placing them in violation of Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991).
Major Enforcement Wave Targets Non-Compliant FM
At the heart of this enforcement drive are serious concerns about stations failing to honor financial obligations tied to their authorizations.
According to the NCA, 13 FM stations that had applied for permission to continue operations were granted provisional authorizations.
However, they failed to fully settle their provisional authorization fees, rendering their authorizations invalid. This constitutes another violation of Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).
“Seven (7) FM stations that have paid provisional authorisation fees but final Authorisation has yet to be issued and have not fulfilled the requirements of Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011. L.I. 1991.”
National Communications Authority (NCA)
These stations continue to broadcast without meeting the final regulatory standards necessary for lawful operations.
Altogether, approximately 62 FM stations across Ghana have been ordered to suspend broadcasting immediately.
The NCA made it clear that these stations either lack valid broadcasting authorizations or have not been issued Certificates of Compliance required to legally commence operations.
The affected stations may only resume operations after addressing all regulatory violations and receiving full clearance from the Authority.
Regulator Calls For Strict Compliance
While acknowledging the significant role FM radio stations play in national development, the NCA underscored the importance of strict adherence to broadcasting regulations.
The Authority emphasized that compliance is not optional but an essential requirement for maintaining order and professionalism within Ghana’s media landscape.
“We wish to assure the general public that the NCA remains dedicated to maintaining order in the broadcasting sector. We urge all Authorisation Holders to fully comply with regulatory requirements to help promote an orderly industry.”
National Communications Authority (NCA)
The NCA warned that continued non-compliance would result in severe consequences, including the potential revocation of broadcasting licenses. “Failure to comply with this directive shall constitute an affront to the prescribed conditions for FM Broadcasting with grave consequences for their Authorizations.”
The Authority’s actions have generated significant public discussion, with some industry watchers praising the NCA for taking decisive steps to uphold regulatory standards, while others argue for a more lenient approach to support smaller, struggling stations.
However, the NCA has remained firm in its position that the long-term integrity of Ghana’s broadcasting sector depends on full compliance with the law.
As the enforcement drive continues, broadcasters across the country are being urged to audit their own compliance status and take immediate steps to resolve any regulatory lapses.
The NCA has indicated that future phases of the enforcement operation will proceed, and all stations must be prepared to demonstrate full compliance to avoid facing similar sanctions.
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