A growing concern over the misuse of community information centres in Ghana has sparked calls for urgent regulation by national authorities. These centres, often operating via loudspeakers in rural and peri-urban areas, are being used to broadcast unverified content, advertise unapproved products, and spread fear through religious manipulation.
“Many of the products advertised on these platforms are not approved by the Food and Drugs Authority,” said creative arts journalist and digital strategist Jonilar. “Some are not even suitable for human consumption, and I’m certain the Ghana Standards Authority is also unaware of them.”
The platforms, while accessible and affordable, have become powerful tools in shaping public opinion—especially in communities with limited access to verified media. Some self-proclaimed pastors exploit this reach to instil fear and promote falsehoods, often without consequence.
“These platforms play a significant role in shaping public behaviour due to their accessibility and affordability,” Jonilar noted. “But when they’re used to peddle fear and falsehoods, they become dangerous.”
Beyond misinformation, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been urged to intervene due to excessive noise pollution from these broadcasts. The continuous operation of these centres, often from morning till evening, poses a public health risk in residential areas.
“This is pure pollution, and it’s affecting the well-being of our people,” Jonilar emphasised.
The message is clear: leadership must rise to the task. Without swift intervention, Ghanaian communities remain vulnerable to exploitation, misinformation, and environmental harm.