Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, says Ghana’s telecommunications sector suffered over GH¢138 million in losses in 2024 due to 5,600 fibre optic cable cuts.
The CEO said each fibre cut costs an average of US$23,000 to repair, placing a heavy financial burden on telecom operators.
“Beyond the economic toll, the damage frequently disrupts internet and mobile services for consumers and undermines the credibility of service providers,” he added.
Dr. Ashigbey said, “these cuts are not just costly but they affect connectivity, disrupt businesses, and erode public trust in our services.”
He identified construction work, cable theft attempts, and illegal mining as the primary causes of the damage.
In response, the Chamber is now working with the Attorney General’s Department to secure a fiat, a legal instrument that would allow it to prosecute offenders.
“The aim is to hold those responsible accountable and deter future damage to critical infrastructure,” Dr. Ashigbey said.
The Chamber stressed that legal backing is essential to stem the growing threat to telecom infrastructure and ensure reliable service as Ghana advances its digital agenda.
