NCA Shuts Down 62 Radio Stations Including Asaase, Wontumi Over Licensing Violations

The move is part of a nationwide compliance audit targeting unauthorized broadcasting activities.

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has ordered the immediate shutdown of 62 radio stations across Ghana following a recent audit that uncovered widespread breaches of licensing and regulatory requirements. Among the affected outlets are prominent stations such as Asaase Radio, Wontumi Radio, and Happy FM.

The directive, issued on June 12, 2025, forms part of efforts by the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation to enforce compliance with the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775) and associated broadcasting regulations.

Summary of Breaches

According to the NCA, the audit revealed multiple forms of non-compliance, including:

28 stations operating with expired authorizations despite repeated warnings.

14 stations broadcasting illegally after failing to establish operations within two years of receiving their licenses, a direct violation of Regulation 54.

13 stations that had not completed the required payments for their provisional authorizations.

7 stations that had paid for provisional licenses but failed to meet the conditions for final authorization.

The NCA emphasized that all 62 stations currently lack valid authorizations and must address outstanding issues before they can resume broadcasting.

Asaase Radio Among Affected Stations

Asaase Radio, one of the most recognizable names on the list, has acknowledged its lapse. Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, a key stakeholder in the station, confirmed via a post on X (formerly Twitter) that the station delayed renewing its license. “It was to be renewed by October but was only done in December 2024,” he stated.

Upholding Standards in Broadcasting

While the NCA acknowledged the significant role that media plays in national development, it stressed the importance of regulatory compliance.

“Failure to comply with this directive shall constitute an affront to the prescribed conditions for FM broadcasting, with grave consequences,” the Authority warned.

The NCA reiterated its commitment to maintaining a professional, fair, and orderly broadcasting landscape. The Authority urged all media operators to adhere to the rules governing their operations and work in tandem with regulatory frameworks to support industry growth and sustainability.