The National Information Technology Agency (NITA) has warned that persistent power outages could increase the cost of internet and other digital services in Ghana. This rise in cost stems from operators spending more to keep critical infrastructure running during electricity disruptions. The agency projects these additional expenses will ultimately affect the affordability of digital services for consumers.
Frequent and unexpected interruptions to electricity supply are placing significant pressure on data centres and other digital infrastructure. Service providers must invest in multiple layers of backup systems, such as generators and uninterruptible power supplies, to ensure continuous operation. These redundancy measures are costly, and their expense is likely to be transferred to the end-users of digital services.
This development fits into Ghana's broader economic narrative of infrastructure challenges impacting service delivery and economic growth. Reliable power is a fundamental requirement for a thriving digital economy, which the government actively promotes. The current situation threatens to undermine efforts to expand digital inclusion and leverage technology for national development. Ghana's digital transformation agenda relies heavily on stable and affordable connectivity.
Estelle Akofio-Sowah, NITA Board Chairperson, emphasized the immediate impact of power instability. Speaking at National ICT Week 2026, she stated, “Just this morning we had a fairly major power outage across the country, and that again affects critical infrastructure like data centres where we're hosting our equipment and our information, our data.” She explained that extensive redundancy is necessary for critical systems to remain operational during national power supply disruptions, adding pressure on affordability.
The implications are far-reaching for Ghana's digital future and its citizens. Consumers, already calling for cheaper data, may face higher prices for internet and other essential digital services. This could widen the digital divide, making access less equitable for many Ghanaians. Decision-makers must address the power supply challenges to safeguard the affordability and accessibility of digital services, which are crucial for economic participation and innovation.
Beyond power issues, NITA also disclosed that over 8,000 fibre cuts have been recorded so far this year. These incidents, often due to vandalism, further increase the cost of maintaining and repairing telecommunications infrastructure. The combined effect of power outages and infrastructure damage creates a challenging environment for digital service providers. This situation demands urgent attention from policymakers to ensure the stability and growth of the technology sector.
Stakeholders at National ICT Week 2026 highlighted the growing economic potential of Ghana's gaming and Esports industry. Vice President of the Esports Association Ghana, Maximus Ametorgoh, noted that approximately US$121 million was spent in Ghana in 2025 on video game downloads and subscriptions. This emerging sector, along with artificial intelligence, requires robust and affordable digital infrastructure to flourish. The current challenges could hinder Ghana's ability to fully harness these opportunities.
The reliability and affordability of digital services will remain closely linked to the resilience of the supporting infrastructure. Without consistent and affordable electricity, the costs of doing business for digital service providers will continue to climb. This will inevitably impact the prices consumers pay and the overall competitiveness of Ghana's digital economy. Investment in reliable power and secure infrastructure is paramount for future growth.
The government's commitment to a digital Ghana requires a stable foundation of power and connectivity. Addressing these infrastructure deficits is critical to prevent increased costs from stifling innovation and access. The call from NITA and other stakeholders for greater investment in reliable electricity and digital infrastructure underscores the urgency of the situation. Ghana's aspirations for a thriving digital economy depend on these fundamental improvements.