We must sanitize Ghana’s airwaves – Sam George

Ghana’s Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has ordered the suspension of seven radio stations, citing national security concerns and unauthorized broadcasting. This move is part of a broader effort to regulate the country’s media landscape and enforce adherence to broadcasting regulations.

According to a statement, six of the radio stations were shut down for broadcasting without valid frequency authorizations, following a recent frequency audit. The affected stations include Fire Group of Companies in Sunyani, I-Zar Consult Limited in Tamale, and Osikani Community FM in Nkrankwanta, among others.

The Minister also ordered the immediate shutdown of Gumah FM Station in Bawku, following urgent national security concerns raised by the Upper East Regional Security Council. Intelligence reports indicate that Gumah FM station has been used as a platform to incite violence, disrupt public order, and escalate tensions in the region.

In a statement, Minister Samuel Nartey George emphasized the need to “sanitize” Ghana’s airwaves, stating, “We must sanitize Ghana’s airwaves and ensure strict compliance with laws governing frequency authorizations.” This call to action underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining national security and upholding the rule of law.

As the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George has been a strong advocate for digital transformation in Ghana. Recently, he championed Africa’s digital transformation at the AI Action Summit in Paris, highlighting the importance of developing valuable datasets and ensuring digital sovereignty ¹.

This is not the first time Ghana’s National Communications Authority has taken action against radio stations. In 2020, the authority suspended Radio Tongu, a privately-owned station, on national security grounds. Similarly, in 2024, four FM radio stations in the Upper East Region were shut down following recommendations from the Regional Security Council.