Ghana’s National AI Strategy Threatened by Persistent Fibre Optic Cable Damage

Ghana’s ambitious roadmap to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) for national development is facing a critical bottleneck as frequent damage to fibre optic cables threatens the country's digital foundation. The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, a cornerstone of the President John Mahama administration’s vision for economic modernization, identifies healthcare, agriculture, and education as primary sectors for AI-driven transformation. However, experts warn that the fragility of the nation's connectivity infrastructure could derail these high-tech goals, as reliable high-speed internet access is the essential prerequisite for any large-scale AI deployment.

The economic impact of these infrastructure failures is staggering, with data indicating that telecommunications operators in Ghana have spent over $69 million on fibre optic repairs over the last five years alone. This significant expenditure represents a major missed opportunity, as these funds have been diverted from critical network expansion and the development of dedicated AI infrastructure. Beyond the direct financial costs, the frequent outages caused by cable cuts disrupt both public services and private enterprise, creating a volatile digital environment that discourages the long-term investment required to sustain a robust AI ecosystem.

Addressing this challenge requires a strategic shift in how Ghana manages its physical and digital development. Stakeholders are increasingly advocating for a "Dig Once Policy," which would require closer coordination between road contractors, utility providers, and telecommunications firms to prevent accidental cable damage during construction. By aligning physical infrastructure projects with digital needs, the government aims to create a more resilient backbone for the economy. Successfully implementing such policies will be vital for Ghana to protect its investments and ensure that its AI ambitions are supported by a stable, reliable connectivity network.