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Source: Elvis Agyenim Boateng mymctvonline.com
The National Communications Authority (NCA) has today directed Asaase Radion, Wontumi FM and sixty (60) non-compliant FM Broadcasting Stations to immediately suspend their operations due to persistent violations of regulatory requirements.
This enforcement action, deemed necessary by the NCA, targets stations found in breach of Regulations 54 and 56 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991), and the Conditions of their FM Broadcasting Authorisations.
This directive follows a mandate from the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, empowering the NCA to enforce applicable sanctions on stations identified in violation of regulations during a recent compliance audit. The goal is to ensure full adherence to licensing and operational requirements within the broadcasting sector.
The enforcement of regulatory sanctions against these defaulting entities will proceed in phases, based on the findings of a Frequency Audit Report. The initial phase identifies stations across four categories of infractions:
• Twenty-Eight (28) stations are operating with expired Authorisations. Some of these stations were ordered by the NCA in 2024 to cease broadcasting but have continued to operate illegally. This constitutes a violation of Section 2 (4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).
• Fourteen (14) FM stations were issued Notices of Revocation for failing to set up within two (2) years from the date of their Authorisations. Despite this, the inspection process has not been completed due to delays, and these stations continue to re-notify their status as operational. This is a violation of Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011, L.I. 1991.
• Thirteen (13) FM stations applied for Authorisation to continue operating and have been issued Provisional Authorisation but have not settled the Provisional Authorisation fees in full. Consequently, they do not hold valid Authorisation to continue operating, in violation of Section 2 (4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).
• Seven (7) FM stations have paid provisional authorisation fees but final Authorisation has yet to be issued, as they have not fulfilled the requirements of Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011, L.I. 1991.
These 62 stations currently lack valid broadcasting Authorisations or a Certificate of Compliance to commence operations. They are prohibited from resuming operations until all regulatory infractions have been addressed and rectified.
The NCA acknowledges the vital role radio stations play in national development and emphasizes that all Authorisation Holders must strictly adhere to the regulatory requirements and conditions of their Authorisations. Failure to comply with this directive will result in severe consequences for their Authorisations.
The NCA reassures the public of its commitment to maintaining order in the broadcasting sector and urges all Authorisation Holders to fully comply with regulatory requirements to promote an orderly industry.
