The Gambia’s Ministry of Information has revoked the broadcasting licenses of five commercial radio stations for operating with expired licenses.

The affected commercial radio stations are Al Allah FM, Janneh Koto, Diego FM, Banjul FM, Mahlegenn Communications Network. This revocation is effective 26 July 2024.

In a statement, Gambia Public Utilities Regulation Authority (PURA) said that: “the Ministry of Information acting under Section 235 of the Information and Communication Act, 2009 has revoked the licenses of the following five commercial radio stations that have been identified to be operating with expired licenses.

“This exercise is part of its continuous monitoring exercise to ensure compliance with the regulatory regime and terms and conditions of the license. These radio stations were operating without a valid license contrary to section 229 (1) of the IC Act 2009. 

“As a consequence of this revocation, any broadcasting services operations done by the above-listed commercial radio stations from 26th July 2024 is illegal and punishable by law. 

“PURA will continue monitoring to ensure compliance and efficient spectrum use. We also take the opportunity to caution all license and authorisation holders to ensure that their licenses and authorisation are always up-to-date and in compliance with the terms and conditions.”

“This exercise is being conducted after consultation with the Broadcasting Enforcement Committee, which comprises PURA, the Ministry of Information, the Media Council of The Gambia, The Ministry of Justice, The Gambia Revenue Authority and The Gambia Police Force,” it ended.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba