The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications has raised concerns over the increasing incidents of fibre optic cable cuts, which they warn are threatening the stability of the national fibre network.
The Chamber is calling on the government and other relevant stakeholders to take immediate action to address this growing issue, which is causing widespread network disruptions and negatively affecting the quality of service delivery.
In response to the alarming rise in fibre cuts, the Chamber has launched a nationwide initiative dubbed “Save Our Fibre.”
This campaign aims to raise public awareness about the crucial role fibre infrastructure plays in supporting Ghana’s telecommunications network, including internet connectivity, communication services, and the country’s overall digital development.
A statement issued by Mr. Louis Bobbie Osei, Regulatory and Research Manager of the Chamber, highlighted the urgent need for a coordinated approach to reduce the risk posed by these fibre cuts.
“The Chamber is deeply concerned about the high incidence of fibre cuts that have been damaging the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure and, in the process, impacting customers’ network experience,” the statement emphasized.
According to the Chamber, the situation has escalated significantly, with 5,133 fibre cuts recorded in the first half of 2024 alone. Telecom operators have spent a staggering GHS 118 million repairing these damages, diverting funds that could have been used to enhance and expand services.
The Chamber underscored the importance of fibre in modern telecommunications, describing it as a critical resource essential for faster data transmission, real-time communication, and seamless connectivity. Fibre is also known for its reliability and resistance to interferences, making it the preferred option for delivering high-quality telecommunications services.
However, the Chamber noted that despite being securely buried underground, fibre infrastructure in Ghana is frequently damaged, leading to service disruptions that affect communication, internet connectivity, and other essential services.
“These cuts, sadly, impact customer experiences. It creates congestion, poor voice calls, slow internet experience, and, in some cases, completely cuts off network services,” the statement added.
The Chamber expressed frustration over the recurring nature of the problem, which it said undermines the substantial investments made by telecom operators to provide reliable services.
Despite efforts to collaborate with key stakeholders—including the Minister of Roads and Highways, utility companies, and road contractors—the Chamber reported that some parties involved in construction activities continue to cause damage to telecom infrastructure.
As a result, the Chamber is exploring stronger measures to address the issue. These include seeking the support of law enforcement and the judiciary to prosecute individuals and entities responsible for fibre cuts, as well as potentially pursuing legal action against repeat offenders.
In addition to its legal and collaborative efforts, the Chamber believes that public education is vital. Through the “Save Our Fibre” campaign, it aims to inform Ghanaians about the link between fibre cuts and the quality of telecom services they receive.
The campaign will also spotlight construction projects that have led to fibre damage and the communities affected by the resulting service disruptions.
The Chamber reiterated its commitment to ensuring uninterrupted, high-quality telecom services across the country. “We will continue to work tirelessly with all stakeholders to protect our nation’s telecom infrastructure and to hold accountable those who undermine it,” the statement concluded.