The National Film Authority (NFA) has raised concerns regarding the growing issue of unauthorised broadcasting of creative works on television networks in Ghana.
In a recent press release, the NFA highlighted the negative effects of illegally broadcasting movies, TV programmes, and other audiovisual content. In addition to infringing copyright, this practice endangers the future of Ghana’s creative industry.
The Authority cited increasing complaints from local and international content creators whose productions have been used illegally by local and digital television channels nationwide. The NFA reports that such practice contravenes the rights of content creators and deters innovation and investment in the industry.
“The unauthorised use of creative works is a clear violation of intellectual property rights and directly impacts the growth of our creative economy,” said Kafui Danku Pitcher, Executive Secretary of the NFA. She reminded broadcasters of the Copyright Act, 2005 (Act 690), which mandates that content creators must give prior consent before their works can be publicly broadcast. She warned that failure to comply with this law could result in legal penalties.
As the nation’s film and audiovisual regulatory agency, the NFA reaffirmed its stand in defending creators’ rights. The Authority is working with other regulators to investigate reported infractions and take action promptly, including suspending or cancelling broadcasting licenses for defaulting stations.
In light of this, the NFA appealed to broadcasters to legitimate their use of content by acquiring the necessary licenses, adhering to intellectual property rights, and correctly categorising all media and films before transmission.
The NFA also highlighted how television stations acquire content rightfully, compensate creators equitably, and observe ethics in broadcasting, all of which contribute to a flourishing and legally aware creative sector within Ghana.
