Telecel Ghana reported that the telecommunications industry has lost over GHS 12 billion (billions of dollars) in the last four years due to fibre optic cable cuts and infrastructure theft. The company experiences an average of three to nine fibre cuts daily across its network. These persistent disruptions threaten network reliability and increase operational costs for service providers.
Road construction activities are a primary cause of these fibre cuts. Deliberate acts of vandalism and the outright theft of telecommunications infrastructure, including fibre chamber covers, also contribute significantly to the problem. These incidents not only disrupt services but also expose critical infrastructure to further damage.
This continuing issue highlights a broader challenge within Ghana's digital economy development. Reliable internet connectivity is crucial for economic growth, business operations, and public services. Frequent disruptions undermine productivity and deter investment in the technology sector. The problem impacts all Ghanaians who rely on stable network services.
Komla Buami, Director of External Affairs at Telecel Ghana, described fibre destruction and infrastructure theft as major threats to reliable connectivity. He made these statements at a media roundtable discussion in Kumasi. Buami noted that industry-wide losses have exceeded billions of dollars over the past four years.
Government ministries and security agencies must increase efforts to protect this vital national infrastructure. Telecel Ghana has engaged the Ministry of Roads and Highways and the Ministry of Communications on this issue. The company is strengthening its own security measures. Security agencies should integrate telecommunications facilities into their regular surveillance operations. This collective action is essential to curb the widespread damage and theft.
Consumers can anticipate continued calls for public vigilance and reporting of suspicious activities around telecommunications infrastructure. The telecommunications sector will likely continue lobbying for stronger enforcement and policy measures to safeguard its assets. Market stability in the digital services sector depends on resolving these infrastructure challenges. This issue will remain a key focus for industry players and regulators.
Telecel Ghana also announced “Ashanti Week” for June. This month-long programme aims to deepen investments and community engagement in the Ashanti Region. Activities include launching a coding and robotics programme and providing hospital support. The Telecel Ghana Foundation leads these initiatives. They also include an Ashanti Golf Tournament and special promotional packages for customers. These investments aim to improve services and infrastructure locally.