The Ghana Music Rights Organization (GHAMRO) has successfully won a copyright infringement case against the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC). This victory came after a six-year legal battle at the Accra High Court, where GBC was found guilty of copyright infringement for failing to obtain user licenses for the musical works published on its TV and radio outlets.

Copyright infringement poses a significant challenge to the growth of creative industries in Ghana. The unauthorized reproduction, distribution, and use of creative works not only undermines the rights of creators but also has severe economic repercussions.

“A legal action was taken against Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) by Ghana Music Rights Organization (GHAMRO) for using copyrighted music without permission. GBC is accused of airing music on their various radio stations, television, and online channels without the proper licensing agreements with GHAMRO. The case was heard and adjudicated by His Lordship Justice Justin Kofi Dorgu.”
Prince Tsegah, PRO GHAMRO

Advancements in digital technology have made infringement easier and more widespread. The internet and digital platforms provide avenues for unauthorized distribution and sharing of copyrighted content.

Online piracy, streaming platforms hosting pirated material, and illegal downloads are prime examples of copyright infringement facilitated by technology.

The Public Relations Officer of GHAMRO, Prince Tsegah, disclosed that his outfit took legal action against the state’s broadcaster for owing music royalties.

According to Prince Tsegah of GHAMRO, after 6 years of back-and-forth at the Accra High Court, the defendant (GBC) was found guilty of copyright infringement and was ordered to obtain user licenses from the plaintiff (GHAMRO) within 90 days.

“The plaintiff, GHAMRO was awarded a sum of GH¢100,000.00 for general damages for the breach of copyright. The concessionary rates of 2% for radio and 0.5% for TV on all revenue (which was offered by the ‘joint reconciliation committee’ back in 2017) that accrued to the defendant, GHAMRO, and all its subsidiaries for the period of 2014 to 2017 still holds.”
Prince Tsegah, PRO GHAMRO

Enforcement of Copyright Laws Necessary

In Ghana, copyright infringement is prevalent across multiple sectors, such as music, film, literature, software, and visual arts. Unauthorized reproduction, piracy, illegal downloads, and counterfeit products severely hamper the ability of creators to benefit from their work.

Copyright infringement has a detrimental impact on the Ghanaian economy. It stifles creativity, discourages innovation, and hampers investment in the creative industries. The loss of revenue due to piracy and unauthorized use of copyrighted content deprives creators of their rightful income and discourages future productions. This, in turn, affects job creation, foreign direct investment, and overall economic growth.

Also, safeguarding intellectual property rights is crucial not only for creators but also for promoting innovation and creativity in Ghana. Strengthening copyright laws, ensuring efficient enforcement mechanisms, and providing adequate resources to the agencies responsible for enforcement are paramount.

Addressing copyright infringement requires collaboration among multiple stakeholders, including government bodies, law enforcement agencies, copyright administrators, rights holders, and consumers.

Partnerships with international organizations, such as the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), can provide technical assistance and capacity building to enhance enforcement capabilities.

Moreover, education and awareness campaigns on copyright laws and the consequences of infringement should be conducted to promote a culture of respect for intellectual property rights.

Copyright infringement poses a significant threat to the creative industry in Ghana. To foster a thriving creative economy, it is crucial to address copyright infringement through effective enforcement measures and robust legal frameworks.

Strengthening intellectual property rights protection, enhancing public awareness, leveraging technology, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders are vital steps toward combating infringement. By protecting and respecting intellectual property rights, Ghana can encourage creativity, innovation, and sustainable economic growth in the digital era.