Ghana’s National Film Authority (NFA) has announced stricter measures against television stations that air Nigerian movies without the proper rights.
James Gardiner, a prominent Ghanaian actor and deputy executive secretary of the NFA, announced the move in response to complaints from Nollywood producer Uchenna Mbunabo. Mbunabo alleged that some Ghanaian TV stations were illegally downloading Nollywood films from YouTube and broadcasting them for free.
I noticed that Ghanaian TV stations are stealing our films and showing them for free with impunity. Is it legal in your country for TV stations to go on YouTube, download people’s hard work, and air it for free? Mbunabo questioned.
Gardiner admitted that copyright infringement remains a significant issue. He assured that the NFA is working closely with the Ministry of Communications, the National Communications Authority (NCA), and the National Media Commission (NMC) to step up enforcement.
He also pointed out that the problem is compounded by the emergence of digital broadcasters, some of which operate from outside Ghana and lack local offices.
As part of the crackdown, Gardiner said the NFA is considering revoking all existing broadcast licenses and requiring TV stations to reapply under more stringent conditions.
