Minister Leads Stakeholder Talks on Long-Awaited Broadcasting Bill

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has kickstarted a series of stakeholder engagements on the much-anticipated Broadcasting Bill.

The proposed legislation aims to address key issues including content regulation, classification, and the coordination of roles among existing media regulators to ensure alignment with Ghana’s constitutional provisions.

The initial meeting brought together major stakeholders such as the National Media Commission (NMC), the National Film Authority (NFA), and the Minister for Government Communications, Hon. Felix Ofosu Kwakye (MP). The discussions focused on streamlining overlapping mandates, clarifying the regulatory framework, and ensuring the bill upholds constitutional freedoms while promoting media responsibility.

A central theme of the meeting was the urgent need for clear and enforceable guidelines on content regulation—an area that has remained ambiguous in Ghana’s rapidly evolving media landscape. Growing concerns over unregulated content, inappropriate programming, and the lack of a unified classification system have made the Broadcasting Bill a national priority.

Hon. Samuel George announced that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) would soon be signed between the NMC, NFA, and the National Communications Authority (NCA) to formalize their cooperation. The MoU is expected to serve as the foundation for a comprehensive and cohesive regulatory structure that supports ethical broadcasting and the development of local content.

“This is about protecting viewers and listeners—especially children—while fostering creative freedom and innovation. The Broadcasting Bill will not only regulate but also empower,” the Minister stated.

The meeting achieved significant progress in resolving contentious issues and laid the groundwork for broader industry consultations in the coming months. Minister George expressed optimism that with continued collaboration, Ghana would soon establish a robust regulatory framework that balances freedom of expression with accountability and social responsibility.