The National Communications Authority (NCA) has directed 62 FM radio stations across the country to suspend operations immediately for failing to meet regulatory standards.
The move follows a recent frequency audit conducted by the Authority to ensure full compliance with the licensing and operational requirements outlined in Ghana’s broadcasting laws.
The NCA revealed that the infractions committed by the affected stations fall under four main categories, each reflecting a clear disregard for regulatory obligations.
The largest group consists of 28 stations that were found to be operating with expired Authorisations. Some of these stations had previously been ordered by the NCA in 2024 to cease broadcasting but continued to operate in defiance of the directive.
Their actions constitute a breach of Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), which prohibits operations without valid Authorisation.
Another 14 stations have also been sanctioned for failing to commence operations within two years from the date their Authorisations were issued.
In line with Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991), such stations were served with Notices of Revocation. However, many of them requested inspections to restore their status but have not yet completed the process. Despite these unresolved lapses, they remain on air, contrary to the law.
Additionally, 13 stations applied for permission to continue broadcasting and were issued Provisional Authorisations. However, they have failed to pay the full fees required under that provisional arrangement. Without full payment, their operations remain unauthorized under Section 2(4) of Act 775.
The NCA noted that these stations do not hold valid rights to be on air and must regularize their status before continuing.
The final group of seven stations has paid the necessary provisional Authorisation fees but has not fulfilled the conditions required for final Authorisation.
As a result, they also fall short of meeting the standards set by Regulation 54 of L.I. 1991 and have been ordered to suspend operations until the requirements are satisfied.
According to the NCA, all 62 stations currently lack either valid broadcasting Authorisations or Certificates of Compliance, making their ongoing activities illegal.
The stations will only be allowed to resume operations after addressing all regulatory breaches identified in the audit.
While the Authority acknowledged the importance of FM stations in national development and public engagement, it emphasized that regulatory compliance is critical to the sustainability and integrity of the broadcasting sector.
Failure to adhere to the suspension directive, the NCA warned, could result in further sanctions, including the permanent loss of Authorisation.
“The NCA remains committed to maintaining order and transparency within Ghana’s media landscape. We urge all Authorisation Holders to treat regulatory obligations with the seriousness they deserve and work collectively to foster an orderly broadcasting environment.” the Authority stated
The current enforcement action forms part of a broader effort by the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation to strengthen governance and compliance within the electronic communications sector