Telecel Ghana has called for increased public support to address the growing problem of fiber optic cable cuts and theft of its telecommunications infrastructure. These acts are causing ongoing service disruptions and costing the industry billions of cedis.
Mr. Komla Buami, Director of External Affairs at Telecel Ghana, stated that the destruction of fiber cables and theft of infrastructure pose major threats to reliable internet and phone services nationwide. He noted that while road construction projects are a primary cause of accidental cuts, deliberate vandalism and theft are also significant factors. The theft of fiber chamber covers is another serious issue. These incidents create operational difficulties for the company and leave vital equipment vulnerable.
The economic impact is considerable. Mr. Buami revealed that industry-wide losses from fiber cuts have surpassed billions of US dollars over the last four years. Telecel Ghana alone experiences between three and nine fiber cuts every single day. This situation directly affects the quality of service for millions of Ghanaians who rely on stable telecommunications for their work, education, and personal connections. It represents a direct drain on resources that could otherwise be invested in expanding network coverage or improving service speeds across the nation.
Telecel Ghana has been actively engaging with government bodies to find solutions. The company has held discussions with the Ministry of Roads and Highways and the Ministry of Communications, along with other important stakeholders. The aim is to reduce the frequency of fiber cuts and improve the security of essential infrastructure. Mr. Buami emphasized that while Telecel is enhancing its own security measures at its facilities, law enforcement agencies need to incorporate telecommunications infrastructure into their regular surveillance patrols. This collaboration is crucial for deterring criminal activity.
Looking ahead, these ongoing disruptions pose a significant challenge. The continuous need to repair damaged infrastructure diverts valuable financial and human resources. This could slow down the expansion of digital services to underserved areas. Decision-makers in the government and telecommunication sector will need to prioritize finding sustainable solutions. This might involve stronger enforcement of existing laws, public awareness campaigns about the importance of protecting infrastructure, or innovative engineering solutions to make cables more resilient to damage.
Meanwhile, Telecel Ghana is also focusing on expanding its presence and impact in the Ashanti Region. The company announced that June is designated as “Ashanti Week.” This month-long initiative aims to boost investments, foster new partnerships, and strengthen community engagement across the region. The Telecel Ghana Foundation will lead these activities, which include launching a coding and robotics program for young people, providing support to local hospitals, hosting an Ashanti Golf Tournament, and offering special promotions and packages to customers. This investment drive underscores the company's commitment to growth and development within Ghana, even as it grapples with infrastructure challenges.