The Agogo Traditional Council has made an urgent appeal to the NCA and Minister of Communications and Digitalization, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, urging her intervention in the reopening of Salt FM, a vital private radio station serving the communities within the traditional area.
In a petition signed by the Omanhene of Agogo, Nana Akuoko Sarpong, and addressed to the minister, it was emphasized that Salt FM has long been the primary source of information for residents across over 65 towns and villages within the traditional area.
“After my engagement with the management of Salt FM, they have promised to rectify all infractions and to take positive steps to renew their licence and any other such requirements before the end of the first quarter of 2024.”
“I, therefore, humbly request that you intervene and direct the National Communications Authority (NCA) to reopen Salt FM and allow it the opportunity to rectify every paper work for ratification,” the Agogohene, a lawyer and one-time Minister of State, submitted in his petition.
The closure of Salt FM 95.9 MHz by the National Communications Authority (NCA) occurred due to the station’s failure to renew its license in a timely manner following its expiration on Saturday, December 23, of the previous year.
Highlighting the significant impact of Salt FM’s absence, the petition underscored the adverse effects experienced by the residents of over 65 towns and villages, who heavily rely on the radio station for essential information.
“Salt FM 95.9MHZ over the years has been key in fostering community and national development dialogues within Agogo and neighbouring communities and the dissemination of information.”
“This media station has also been a key development partner of the Agogo Traditional Council, and its continuous closure disturbs the communication grid between my beloved Traditional Area, its adjoining towns and villages, and the rest of the country,” the letter noted.
In light of these circumstances, Nana Sarpong implored the Communications and Digitalization Minister to show compassion and allow Salt FM 95.9 MHz to resume operations while expedited efforts are made to renew its license promptly.
