62 Radio Stations, Including Happy FM, Wontumi FM and Asaase Radio, Shut Down Over Regulatory Breaches – GhArticles.com
The National Communications Authority (NCA) has ordered the immediate shutdown of 62 FM broadcasting stations across Ghana for persistent violations of regulatory requirements.
In a statement released on Wednesday, June 12, the NCA said the affected stations, including notable names like Happy FM, Asaase Radio, and Wontumi FM, have failed to comply with key provisions of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991), specifically Regulations 54 and 56, as well as conditions tied to their broadcasting authorisations.
The enforcement action follows a directive from the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation after an audit revealed widespread non-compliance in the broadcasting sector.
Details of the violations include:
28 stations continuing operations despite expired authorisations, in violation of Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).
14 stations that failed to commence operations within two years of receiving authorisation and were issued Notices of Revocation but remain on air.
13 stations holding provisional authorisations without completing full payment of required fees, rendering their operations invalid.
7 stations that have paid provisional fees but failed to meet the full criteria for final authorisation.
The NCA emphasized that the affected stations currently do not possess valid authorisations or compliance certificates and must rectify all infractions before resuming operations.
While recognizing the crucial role FM stations play in national development, the Authority stressed the importance of upholding regulatory standards.
“Failure to comply with this directive constitutes a serious breach and may lead to further consequences regarding their authorisations,” the NCA warned.
The NCA reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining order and integrity in Ghana’s broadcasting industry and urged all operators to adhere strictly to licensing requirements.