The Ghanaian government, through the National Film Authority (NFA), has announced plans to take tougher action against television stations accused of illegally broadcasting Nigerian movies without obtaining the required licenses or permission from copyright owners.

The move follows complaints by Nollywood producer Uchenna Mbunabo, who accused some Ghanaian television stations of downloading Nigerian films from YouTube and airing them freely without compensating filmmakers or securing broadcasting rights. He described the practice as a serious violation of intellectual property rights that undermines the efforts of movie producers.

Responding to the allegations, Deputy Executive Secretary of the Ghana National Film Authority, James Gardiner, acknowledged that copyright infringement remains a major challenge.

He said the NFA is working closely with the Ministry of Communications, the National Communications Authority (NCA), and the National Media Commission (NMC) to strengthen enforcement against offending broadcasters.

Gardiner revealed that authorities are considering stricter licensing regulations, including requiring television stations to reapply for their broadcasting licenses under tougher conditions. He explained that the rapid growth of digital television platforms, some of which operate from outside Ghana, has made enforcement more difficult.

Under the proposed measures, television stations found guilty of illegally airing copyrighted content could face heavy fines, suspension of their broadcasting licenses, or permanent revocation for repeated violations.

The NFA believes the tougher sanctions will help protect filmmakers, encourage respect for copyright laws, and promote a fair and sustainable film industry across Africa.