NFA to Punish TV Stations for Content Theft

The National Film Authority (NFA) says it is working closely with relevant institutions to investigate and take action against television stations that air content without authorization from the right owner or right holder and offenders risk having their licenses suspended or revoked.

“To this end, the Authority is working closely with relevant institutions to investigate and take appropriate actions against television stations that air content without authorization from the right owner or right holder. Offenders risk having their licenses suspended or revoked,” NFA warned.

In a statement issued on their Facebook wall on April 26th 2025, the NFA expressed deep concern about the increasing illegal use and broadcast of creative content by several Ghanaian television stations. It said the practice violates copyright laws and threatens the country’s creative industry.

 “This practice violates copyright laws and threatens the integrity and sustainability of the country’s creative ecosystem.

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.

These infringements violate content creators’ rights and discourage investment and creativity in Ghana’s creative industries,” the statement read.

The Authority reminded broadcasters that under the Copyright Act, 2005 (Act 690), it is illegal to perform or broadcast copyrighted work publicly without the rights holder’s approval.

The NFA also called on all broadcasters to secure proper licensing agreements, respect intellectual property rights, and classify all films and audiovisual content before airing them.

According to the NFA, protecting intellectual property rights is key to building a strong creative economy that can drive national development, create jobs, and gain international recognition.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Sam George, and the CEO of the NFA, Kafui Danku Pitcher, have assured Nigerian producer and actress Bimbo Ademoye of their commitment to resolving her copyright concerns in Ghana.

Bimbo Ademoye recently raised alarm about her movies being broadcast on Ghanaian TV without authorization. In a video posted on Instagram, she called out the stations for violating her rights. While many Ghanaians supported her concerns, some disagreed, including content creator and plus-size advocate Miz Debbie, who argued that the broadcasts were promoting Bimbo’s work.

In response, Bimbo tagged both the Communication Minister and the NFA boss in another post. Sam George replied, assuring her that the government respects intellectual property laws and would address the issue. Kafui Danku also commented, promising that swift actions were being taken to resolve the matter.

The NFA has urged all media houses to work together in protecting the rights of creators and building a lawful and thriving creative industry in Ghana.