Entertainment
Broadcasters must pay for DTT platform but $10k fee is on the high side – Sam George
The Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Communications Committee, Samuel Nartey George, has emphasised that TV stations utilizing the Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) platform must pay for its usage.
The Ningo-Prampram lawmaker argued that the platform incurs significant costs for the state in its operation and cannot be provided to broadcasters for free.
Speaking in an interview on Joy FM’s Top Story on Monday, December 11, Mr Nartey George acknowledged that while the initial $10,000 charge set by the Communications Minister is on the high side, there should be a reconsideration of the fee.
He urged the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA) and the Communications Ministry to engage in a more collaborative approach, emphasizing that both entities need each other to operate effectively in the space.
“The point must be made that this whole thing about the charge is a long-standing principle from the days of Dr Omane Boamah (former Communications Minister), when the DTT platform was built in 2015. There is always been the understanding that the DTT platform is not for free and that there will be a fee to be paid.”
“The issue at stake now is the processes by which the fee is being determined. We as a committee have invited the ministry and GIBA. The Ministry and GIBA need to come to a place where they have an understanding that it is not possible to proceed without the one or the other and that this matter would have to be discussed and agreed on and not litigated on.”
“The Ministry has originally determined a fee of $15,000 which I believe is on the high side even though the DTT appears to be a monopoly, there are other platforms, and there is a fair understanding of how much those platforms charge the same TV stations for broadcasting their content which is in the region of $7,500. So I hold the view that will be a fair place to start the conversation,” he told host Evans Mensah.
On Monday, December 11, Communications Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful issued a warning that television signals to homes and offices may be cut next year if operators fail to pay for the Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) platform.
The Minister emphasized that the government has been covering the cost of operating the platform, incurring millions of dollars, and can no longer bear the expense.
In response to this warning, the President of the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), Andrew Danso-Aninkora Sunkwa-Mills, described the caution as ‘unfortunate.’
In an interview with JoyNews, Mr Sunkwa-Mills stated that GIBA opposes the arbitrary allocation of fees on a national platform by the Communications Ministry.
He highlighted that the Minister initially proposed a fee of $15,000 a month per station, which was later reduced to $10,000 a month after the fee faced challenges and the Association called for a breakdown.
Mr Sunkwa-Mills emphasized that the DTT platform is monopolistic, and the determination of rates or fees must align with the Rate and Fees Act passed and managed by the Finance Committee of Parliament.
What is DTT?
Digital Terrestrial Television is a technology for terrestrial television where television stations broadcast television content in a digital format.
Source: Myjoyonline.com
Entertainment
Oncemore Six to headline Symphonic Gospel Meets Orchestra 2024
Symphonic Music Ghana is set for the 4th edition of the Symphonic Gospel Meets Orchestra concert, scheduled for December 22 at The Palms Convention Centre in Accra.
This year’s event will feature renowned South African gospel artiste Oncemore Six as the main performer.
The singer is known for his powerful worship songs like “Here on our knees” and “Ohlonishwayo”.
‘Oncemore Six’ has inspired audiences across Africa with his heartfelt music.
Joining him on stage will be a lineup of talented gospel musicians, including Grace Charles, Shadrach Kwesi Mensah, Efe Grace, Charnté Eseyin, Lordina The Soprano, Kofi Owusu Peprah, Luigi Maclean, Enuonyam, and more. This diverse group of artistes promises to deliver a memorable evening of worship and praise.
The concert aims to blend contemporary gospel music with classical orchestral elements, creating a unique and uplifting experience for all attendees. As a live recording event, it offers the audience an opportunity to be part of a significant moment in Ghana’s gospel music scene.
The tickets are still available for purchase.
You can’t miss this opportunity to experience a night of powerful worship and musical excellence. Mark your calendars for tomorrow and join at The Palms Convention Center for an unforgettable evening.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
Entertainment
2024 Eastern Music Awards: Daasebreba Kwame crowned Artiste of the Year
Rising music sensation Daasebreba Kwame has been crowned Artiste of the Year at the 2024 Eastern Music Awards held at the Koforidua Cultural Centre.
The Eastern Music Awards, currently in its fifth year, promotes and recognises remarkable artistes thriving in the region and throughout Ghana in a variety of categories.
The night featured thrilling performances by nominees and past winners, highlighting the Eastern Region’s rich musical tradition.
Daasebreba Kwame, who is signed to the Yaco International record label, has had a successful year, winning the prestigious Artiste of the Year award, as well as Highlife Song of the Year at this year’s Eastern Music Awards.
Daasebreba Kwame’s Artiste of the Year prize package included a performance at the 2025 African Music Week in Canada.
In his acceptance speech, Daasebreba Kwame expressed gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support and dedicated this award to all aspiring musicians in Ghana.
He emphasised the importance of staying true to one’s musical roots while embracing innovation in music, and this was received by massive applause from attendees at the auditorium.
This accolade is a significant milestone in the career of Daasebreba Kwame, who is known for his unique blend of traditional Ghanaian sounds with contemporary music styles, which has captivated audiences both locally and internationally.
Winning this award not only highlights Daasebreba Kwame’s individual talent but also underscores the growing recognition of Eastern Region artistes within Ghana’s broader music industry.
Daasebreba Kwame’s victory at the Eastern Music Awards marks a significant achievement not just for him but for all artistes striving for excellence in their craft.
As he continues to inspire others through his music and dedication to cultural heritage, it is clear that he will remain a prominent figure in Ghana’s evolving music landscape.
This year’s event saw an increase in nominations across various genres, reflecting a diverse range of musical expressions emerging from the region.
