Cabinet considers public media levy to replace TV licence — Mahama
9th January 2026
President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that Cabinet is considering reforms to Ghana’s television licensing framework, including plans to replace the existing TV licence with a proposed Public Media Levy.
The President made this known during a visit to the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) on Thursday, January 8, as part of his ongoing engagements with state institutions. He explained that the proposed changes form part of broader efforts to strengthen the financial sustainability of public broadcasting.
According to President Mahama, discussions are underway within Cabinet to amend the current law governing television licensing. The reforms, once finalised, are expected to be submitted to Parliament for approval.
“There are a few suggestions we have with regard to the so-called TV licence, and our thinking is moving towards amending the law to introduce some form of Public Media Levy,” he said.
He noted that the proposed levy is intended to broaden and stabilise the funding base for public media organisations, ensuring they receive more consistent and adequate financial support to carry out their mandate.
President Mahama assured GBC management that the government would engage widely with relevant stakeholders before the proposed amendments are laid before Parliament.
“When we are ready, we will discuss it fully at Cabinet, and we will also engage with you on our thinking before we finally go to Parliament to amend the law,” he stated.
The President expressed confidence that the planned reforms would significantly improve the revenue available to public broadcasters, enabling them to operate more efficiently and deliver better services to the public.
“With some of the proposals we have received, I am confident that the funding generated will increase and place you in a better position to do your work,” he added.