The Copyright Office of Ghana has warned television stations nationwide to desist from broadcasting copyrighted content without proper authorization, cautioning that offenders will face legal sanctions, including possible jail terms.
In a statement released on Wednesday, June 11, the Office’s National Anti-Piracy Committee said it had identified several TV stations engaged in the illegal practice of downloading and airing movies, series, sports broadcasts, and other creative works from streaming platforms without the required licenses.
“This practice constitutes copyright infringement and is a criminal offense under the Copyright Act, 2005 (Act 690), as amended,” the statement emphasized.
It added: “Any individual or entity found in violation is liable to face severe legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or both.”
The Committee noted that the rampant abuse of intellectual property undermines Ghana’s creative economy, deprives artists and rights holders of their due earnings, and violates both national and international copyright laws.
All broadcasters have been directed to immediately:
Cease broadcasting any content they do not hold rights to;
Acquire proper licenses from rights holders or authorised agencies;
Keep detailed records of all content agreements for inspection.
The Office has announced intensified surveillance and enforcement efforts across the country in partnership with law enforcement agencies to clamp down on such infringements.
“We call on all broadcasters to uphold the principles of intellectual property rights and support the growth of Ghana’s creative economy by respecting the law,” the statement concluded.
