LTA Engages Unlicensed Radio Stations, Requests Compliance 

By Michlyne N. Williams

 MONROVIA, June 24 (LINA) – The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) has initiated a comprehensive  process to identify non-compliant media outlets, discovering over 60 radio stations operating without proper licensing. 

Speaking at a press conference held at the LTA headquarters in Paynesville on June 20, 2024, acting Chair Abdullah Kamara confirmed that more than 60 previously licensed radio stations are now operating without fulfilling crucial regulatory requirements, such as fees payment and obtaining necessary permits from the Ministry of Information and the LTA.

Kamara highlighted that in Montserrado County alone, 53 stations are currently operating illegally, monopolizing Liberia’s limited radio spectrum, with only 10 stations adhering to compliance standards. 

He mentioned that this widespread disregard for regulations poses a significant challenge to effectively managing the country’s communication resources. 

Further exacerbating the situation, Kamara revealed a list of 17 stations in Montserrado County operating without any registration, blatantly violating LTA regulations and facing imminent closure due to lack of proper authorization and installation approvals. 

Among the prominent stations implicated in the LTA’s findings are OK FM, ELBC, Prime FM, Punch FM, and Truth FM. According to LTA investigations, these stations have been found using unauthorized or pirated frequencies, disregarding established regulatory frameworks governing telecommunications in Liberia.

“This revelation has sparked concerns over the integrity of the media landscape and potential disruptions to licensed operations”, Kamara said.

He emphasized the critical importance of adhering to licensing requirements to maintain order and fairness in the telecommunications sector.

Kamara stated, “Operating without a license not only contravenes our regulations but also disrupts spectrum management and risks interfering with other licensed services.” 

The Acting Chairman affirmed the LTA’s commitment to taking decisive actions against the identified stations, including imposing fines, seizing equipment, and potentially shutting down operations if compliance measures are not promptly met. 

 He further urged all media entities to ensure their operations are fully licensed and compliant with LTA guidelines to mitigate similar repercussions.