Fibre Cuts Threaten Ghana's Network Reliability

Fibre Cuts Threaten Ghana's Network Reliability as 2026 Incidents Projected to Reach 8,578 Accra, Ghana — Ghana continues to face growing challenges with fibre-optic cable cuts, with the number of incidents projected to reach 8,578 in 2026, according to data presented at the Government Accountability Series. The presentation highlights fibre cuts as a major threat to the quality and reliability of telecommunications services across the country. Data presented show that fibre-cut incidents increased from 3,900 in 2021 to 10,034 in 2022, before falling to 6,344 in 2023 and 5,600 in 2024. The number rose again to 8,000 in 2025, with 8,578 incidents projected for 2026. The presentation further indicates that the financial burden associated with repairing damaged fibre infrastructure is significant. The average repair cost per fibre cut is estimated at about US$2,045, while more than US$20 million was reportedly spent on repairs in 2025 alone. Road construction identified as leading cause According to the root-cause analysis presented, road construction and excavation account for 49% of fibre-cut incidents, making them the leading identified cause. Third-party/private developers account for approximately 26%, while other causes, including mining, utilities and vandalism, account for about 25%. The presentation also cited incidents along major corridors, including Winneba–Mankessim, Ho–Ziope and Hwediem–Goaso, where fibre disruptions have reportedly resulted in prolonged outages and degraded internet service. Power instability adds pressure The presentation also highlights the relationship between electricity supply challenges and telecommunications network performance. Incidents referenced include the Akosombo fire incident on 23 April 2026, the Greater Accra floods in Q2 2026, and national grid outages recorded on 29 July and 20 August 2026. According to the presentation, such power disruptions can further compound network instability and contribute to service downtime. Government considers 'Dig Once' policy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has indicated that his outfit intends to seek Cabinet approval for the implementation of a 'Dig Once' policy. The proposed policy is intended to help address recurring fibre cuts associated with road construction and excavation by ensuring that telecommunications infrastructure is better coordinated with other infrastructure projects. The policy, if approved and implemented, could provide a more sustainable approach to protecting Ghana's fibre infrastructure and reducing repeated disruptions to mobile and internet services. Source: Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications / National Communications Authority data referenced in the Government Accountability Series presentation, dated 11 August 2026.