Ghanaian telecommunications operators are spending significant sums to repair damaged fibre optic cables. These repairs divert money needed for expanding the country's digital infrastructure. This costly problem threatens Ghana's economic future and its digital ambitions.
Between 2021 and 2025, telecom operators recorded thousands of fibre cuts each year. Repair costs escalated from $7.5 million (GHS 101.25 million) in 2021 to $20 million (GHS 270 million) in 2025. The number of cuts peaked at 10,034 in 2022, costing $17.4 million (GHS 234.9 million). While cuts decreased slightly in 2023 and 2024, they surged again in 2025, exceeding 8,000 incidents. Data for the first half of 2026 shows 4,289 cuts already, indicating the problem persists.
This ongoing damage significantly impacts Ghana's broader economic and digital development goals. The nation relies on robust connectivity for its growing digital financial services, businesses, and public services. Frequent disruptions undermine these sectors, hindering productivity and economic growth. The issue also affects Ghana's emerging artificial intelligence ambitions, which depend on resilient communication networks. This problem makes fibre protection a critical economic policy issue, not just a telecommunications concern.
The telecommunications industry has engaged various government agencies, contractors, and utility providers. They also work with the National Engineering Coordinating Team to improve coordination. However, the industry argues that coordination must become a standard practice before damage occurs. This proactive approach is essential to protect vital infrastructure during large-scale construction projects.
One proposed solution is the 'Dig Once' principle. This involves incorporating empty fibre ducts and other digital infrastructure into new road construction projects. It also means mapping and protecting existing fibre before any excavation begins. Such measures could reduce repeated excavations and lower future network deployment costs. The industry also calls for greater accountability for deliberate or negligent destruction of critical infrastructure. Without these interventions, Ghana risks undermining its own infrastructure investments.
The financial burden of these repairs is substantial, diverting funds that could otherwise expand network coverage. Every damaged cable requires resources to locate the fault, repair infrastructure, and restore connectivity. The impact extends beyond direct repair bills, causing significant losses for businesses and consumers. Public institutions also suffer from service interruptions. Ghana cannot maximize returns on its infrastructure investments if it repeatedly damages its digital backbone. The challenge is ensuring that physical infrastructure development does not destroy digital infrastructure.
The economic implications are far-reaching. Unreliable internet access can deter foreign investment and stifle local innovation. Businesses face operational delays, leading to lost revenue and reduced competitiveness. Consumers experience frustration and reduced access to essential online services. The government's push for a digital economy requires a stable and protected network foundation. Addressing fibre cuts is crucial for Ghana to achieve its full digital potential and ensure sustainable economic growth.