Sam George directs NCA to shutdown six radio stations

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations has directed the Acting Director General of the National Communications Authority (NCA) to take immediate enforcement action against several entities for operating without valid frequency authorisations, in violation of Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).

The entities affected by this directive are:

1. Fire Group of Companies, Sunyani – 90.1MHz
2. I-Zar Consult Limited, Tamale – 89.7MHz
3. Abochannel Media Group, Adidome – 105.7MHz
4. Okyeame Radio Limited, Bibiani – 99.7MHz
5. Mumen Bono Foundation, Techiman – 99.7MHz
6. Osikani Community FM, Nkrankwanta – 99.7MHz

The Communications Ministry in a statement on Tuesday February 18 noted that these entities have failed to renew their authorisations, fulfill statutory payment obligations, or submit the required documentation within the stipulated timeframe.

As a result, their authorisations have lapsed by operation of law, rendering their continued operations illegal.

In accordance with Act 775, it is unlawful to operate a broadcasting service without a valid frequency authorisation. The NCA will take the necessary steps to halt all unauthorized transmissions and ensure compliance with the law.

The Ministry is continuing its review of the frequency authorisation audit and will provide further directives in due course. All frequency authorisation holders are urged to comply strictly with the terms of their authorisations to avoid similar enforcement actions.