The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications has expressed grave concern over the alarming rise in fibre cuts that are damaging the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure while significantly impacting customer network experience.
In the first half of 2024 alone, there were 5,133 reported fibre cuts across the country, resulting in an expenditure of GHS 118 million for repairs.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, 24 September 2024, the Chamber emphasised the critical role of fibre optics in the telecommunications sector.
“Fibre is a critical resource laid underground or strung above ground to connect to the network operating systems to provide faster data transfers,” it stated.
This technology ensures real-time communication and seamless connectivity, making it essential for modern network operations.
However, the frequency of fibre disruptions in Ghana poses a challenge.
“Although fibre is expected to be secure when buried underground, the experience in Ghana is quite different,” the Chamber remarked, highlighting the detrimental effect on service quality.
The disruptions lead to poor voice calls, slow internet speeds, and, in some cases, complete network outages.
“This situation is unacceptable and undermines the significant investments made by telecom operators to deliver reliable services,” the Chamber indicated.
In response to these challenges, the Chamber revealed it is actively engaging with key stakeholders, including the Minister of Roads and Highways, to foster collaboration in protecting telecom infrastructure during construction activities.
However, some entities involved in construction have been “recalcitrant,” continuing to cause damage to critical infrastructure, which ultimately frustrates subscribers and hampers the country’s digital progress.
To combat this issue, the Chamber is seeking the support of law enforcement to prosecute individuals and entities responsible for repeated fibre cuts.
“We are proposing that our members consider taking legal action against uncooperative individuals and entities, ensuring they are held accountable according to the law,” the statement said.
Furthermore, the Chamber is launching a “Save Our Fibre” campaign aimed at raising public awareness about the link between fibre cuts and service quality.
It emphasised that, it will inform Ghanaians about construction projects leading to fibre cuts and the communities affected, in an effort to reduce and potentially eliminate the frequency of these disruptions.
The statement also reiterated the chamber’s commitment to “ensuring that all subscribers enjoy uninterrupted, high-quality telecom services remains steadfast.”
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