In a decisive move to uphold copyright laws within the Ghanaian film industry, the National Film Authority (NFA) has issued a strict warning to terrestrial channel owners and media houses against the unauthorized broadcasting of movies.
This announcement, articulated in a press statement signed by NFA’s Chief Executive Juliet Yaa Asantewa Asante, underscores the legal and financial ramifications of copyright violations.
The NFA’s directive comes in response to a surge of complaints from global film distributors concerning the rampant and unauthorized airing of movies by some Ghanaian media outlets. These grievances highlight a troubling trend where media houses broadcast films without obtaining proper authorization from the copyright holders, thereby infringing on the exclusive rights of the creators.
“Broadcasting or airing a movie without authorization from the copyright owner is a serious infringement that attracts both civil and criminal penalties,” the statement emphasized. The NFA has made it clear that compliance with copyright laws is non-negotiable and mandated under the Development and Classification of Film Act 2016 (Act 935).
The authority has directed all media houses to conduct thorough assessments of the films currently being broadcasted on their platforms. Any movie found to be aired without the requisite permissions must be immediately pulled from the schedule until proper authorization is secured. This proactive measure aims to curb the widespread unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material.
Juliet Yaa Asantewa Asante stressed the importance of this compliance: “Media houses must ensure they have obtained the necessary licenses to avoid legal repercussions and support the sustainability of the creative industry.”
The NFA’s initiative is part of its broader mandate to regulate and nurture the Ghanaian film sector, ensuring that filmmakers’ rights are protected and that the industry operates within the bounds of the law. By enforcing these regulations, the NFA hopes to foster a more respectful and legally compliant media environment, ultimately benefiting creators, distributors, and audiences alike.
As the Ghanaian film industry continues to grow, the NFA’s vigilance and enforcement actions are crucial in maintaining the integrity and economic viability of creative works. The authority’s stance serves as a reminder to all stakeholders in the media landscape of their legal obligations and the importance of respecting intellectual property rights.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Emmanuel Mensah
