Need For More Education On Collection Of TV License  

The recent announcement by the Chairman of the National Media Commission (NMC) of the resumption of the collection of Television license in the country has sparked off some misunderstanding, opposition and in some cases great controversy among a section of the citizenry.  

The (NMC) announced that the revised television license fee will take effect from next month for domestic owners of television which has been increased from GHp30 to GH¢36 per annum per one television set. According to the Chairman of the NMC, Ghana’s TV License fee for domestic owners is inadequate compared to fees charged elsewhere even in Africa.

The collection of TV license fee over the years was smooth without mush controversy and opposition. This is because, at the time, the only station was the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, GBC. But now there are nearly four hundred radio and over one hundred TV stations scatted around the country. 

Besides, viewers and listeners of TV and radio in the country are considering what benefit they derive from GBC, the biggest beneficiary of the fees. A careful study about the situation reveals that most of the people leading the opposition are not well informed about the nitty-gritty of the whole issue. For instance the conception out there is that TV boxes do not need to be licensed.    

All over the world this is the practise to help fund state broadcasting institutions. In the United Kingdom for instance the state collects 145.50 Pounds annually from each household with TV set. 

There are also very effective means of collection and no one could dodge paying. Watching TV without a valid license is a criminal offence in most countries in the world. 

In the UK this can lead to prosecution, a court appearance and a fine of up to £1,000, this does not include legal costs. Unless one has very convincing evidence that there is no TV set in his or her house you have no option, absolutely no option, but to pay the fees. An effective means of collecting the fees would help relieve the government from the huge subvention released to the state broadcaster every year. 

Ghanaian should bear in mind that GBC is still a state asset which all of us must jealously guard and protect. One of the most effective ways to protect GBC is for all citizens to pay the TV License fee. From the look of things, there is the need for intensive education and consultation. This will help Ghanaians to appreciate the payment of the TV License which is such a laudable activity internationally. 

It is unfortunate, renowned people in the media among others are vehemently opposing the TV license in the country. All is not lost yet. The National Media Commission and GBC itself among other well-meaning institutions must embark on an intensive education to win the hearts of the people in this matter. 

Luckily, GBC has the widest audience in the country and can do this in conjunction with other stakeholders with ease. Once the nation’s parliament has passed the law, there is no turning back. 

The onus lies on the NMC and other bodies to put in place a mechanism to do this effectively. A journey of thousand miles they say starts with a step.

BY NANA SIFA TWUM – MEDIA CONSULTANT - LONDON