The Ghanaian government is proposing tougher measures against television stations that broadcast Nigerian films without proper authorisation, including the possible revocation of their operating licences.
James Gardiner, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Film Authority (NFA), disclosed the plan during a video conversation with Nigerian film producer Uchenna Mbunabo.
Mbunabo accused some Ghanaian television stations of downloading Nollywood movies from YouTube and airing them without the permission of copyright owners.
“I noticed that Ghanaian TV stations, the way they are stealing our films and showing them for free with impunity.
Is it legalised in your country for TV stations to go on YouTube, download people’s sweat and show it for free?” Mbunabo asked.
Responding, Gardiner said such practices are illegal and that the Ghanaian government is working to strengthen enforcement against copyright violations.
According to him, the National Film Authority has been engaging the Ministry of Communication, the National Media Commission (NMC) and the National Communications Authority (NCA) on reforms aimed at addressing the problem.
Gardiner said the proposed measures include requiring television stations to reapply for their broadcasting licences, with operators found guilty of copyright infringement facing sanctions, including possible licence revocation.
He expressed optimism that the reforms could be implemented by 2027.
