NCA orders suspension of 62 FM stations for regulatory breaches

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has directed 62 FM broadcasting stations across the country to suspend operations for violating regulatory requirements.

In a press release issued on Thursday, the NCA stated that the action follows infractions uncovered during a recent audit of the broadcasting sector. The Authority cited breaches of Regulations 54 and 56 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991), as well as non-compliance with conditions attached to FM broadcasting authorisations.

According to the statement, the directive was issued in response to an instruction from the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, who mandated the enforcement of applicable sanctions against non-compliant stations.

The NCA said the affected stations fall into four categories:

1. Stations operating with expired authorisations – 28 stations reportedly continued broadcasting despite orders issued in 2024 to cease operations, in violation of Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).
2. Stations that failed to commence operations within two years of receiving authorisation – 14 stations were cited for remaining on air despite not fulfilling inspection requirements, contrary to Regulation 54 of L.I. 1991.
3. Stations with unpaid provisional authorisation fees – 13 stations that were granted provisional authorisations but have not completed payment were found to be operating without valid authorisation.
4. Stations pending final authorisation – 7 stations that had paid provisional fees but not completed final regulatory requirements were also listed among the defaulting entities.

“These stations currently do not hold valid broadcasting Authorisations or do not have a Certificate of Compliance to commence operations and may only resume operations once all regulatory infractions have been addressed and rectified,” the statement said.

The Authority acknowledged the importance of radio stations to national development but maintained that compliance with regulatory standards is non-negotiable. “Failure to comply with this directive shall constitute an affront to the prescribed conditions for FM Broadcasting with grave consequences for their Authorisations,” the statement added.

The NCA indicated that the enforcement process is being rolled out in phases, based on findings from its Frequency Audit Report. It also reiterated its commitment to ensuring regulatory compliance in the sector:

“We wish to assure the general public that the NCA remains dedicated to maintaining order in the broadcasting sector. We urge all Authorisation Holders to fully comply with regulatory requirements to help promote an orderly industry.”

The affected stations were not named in the release.