Deputy Executive Secretary of the National Film Authority (NFA), James Gardiner, has announced plans to tighten regulations against television stations that illegally broadcast movies without the consent of filmmakers.
His comments come amid growing concerns over piracy, following complaints from Nigerian filmmaker Uchenna Mbunabo, who accused some Ghanaian television stations of downloading films from YouTube and airing them without authorisation or payment.
Gardiner acknowledged that the practice has become a major challenge for the film industry, describing it as unacceptable and detrimental to filmmakers who invest heavily in producing quality content.
He disclosed that the NFA is working with the Ministry of Communication, the National Media Commission (NMC) and the National Communications Authority (NCA) to introduce a new regulatory framework that will make it easier to identify and sanction offending broadcasters.
As part of the proposed reforms, all television stations could be required to reapply for their operating licences. According to Gardiner, the move is intended to streamline regulation, particularly in the digital television space where some stations operate without clearly identifiable physical offices.
He explained that the new system would strengthen oversight and enable regulators to deal more effectively with stations that violate copyright laws.
Gardiner also revealed that the planned measures include stricter penalties for copyright infringement. Broadcasters found illegally airing movies could face hefty fines, suspension of their operating licences for repeated offences and, ultimately, revocation of their licences for persistent violations.
He expressed optimism that the reforms would be completed by next year, describing them as a significant step toward protecting the intellectual property rights of filmmakers.
The renewed push follows concerns from producers, including Mbunabo, who said unauthorised broadcasts continue to deprive filmmakers of legitimate revenue and discourage investment in the industry.
The Nigerian producer, whose productions frequently feature Ghanaian actors, said the practice has made it increasingly difficult for filmmakers to earn returns from their work.
