The National Communications Authority (NCA) has directed 62 FM broadcasting stations across Ghana to immediately suspend operations over various regulatory infractions. The decision, announced in a press release dated 12 June 2025, comes as part of a broader enforcement effort targeting non-compliant stations found in breach of licensing and operational requirements.
According to the NCA, the affected stations were cited for persistent violations of Regulations 54 and 56 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991), as well as Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).
The enforcement follows a directive from the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, instructing the NCA to take action against defaulting stations based on findings from a recent audit.
The violations fall into four key categories:
- 28 stations were found operating with expired authorisations, despite being ordered to cease broadcasting in 2024.
- 14 stations had received notices of revocation for failing to set up within two years of authorisation, but continued broadcasting without completing inspection processes.
- 13 stations were issued provisional authorisation but failed to pay the full authorisation fees, rendering their continued operations illegal.
- 7 stations paid provisional authorisation fees but had not fulfilled the requirements needed for final authorisation issuance.
The NCA clarified that the suspended stations either lack valid broadcasting authorisations or have no Certificate of Compliance to begin operations, and must resolve all infractions before resuming broadcast.
While acknowledging the importance of radio stations in national development, the NCA reiterated that all authorisation holders must adhere strictly to the terms of their authorisations. It warned that continued non-compliance could result in severe penalties.
“The NCA remains dedicated to maintaining order in the broadcasting sector. We urge all Authorisation Holders to fully comply with regulatory requirements to help promote an orderly industry,” the statement said.
The enforcement action is part of the NCA’s commitment to sanitising the airwaves and ensuring that all broadcasters operate within the legal framework.
