NITA Warns Persistent Power Outages and Vandalism Threaten to Drive Up Internet Costs in Ghana

The National Information Technology Agency (NITA) has issued a stern warning that the current wave of persistent power outages across Ghana could lead to a significant hike in the cost of internet and digital services. Speaking at the conclusion of National ICT Week 2026, NITA Board Chairperson Estelle Akofio-Sowah explained that telecommunications operators are being forced to divert substantial capital into backup power systems and redundant infrastructure to keep data centers and networks operational. This increased capital expenditure, driven by the need to mitigate the impact of frequent electricity disruptions, directly threatens the affordability of digital services for the average Ghanaian.

Beyond the energy crisis, the agency highlighted a staggering surge in physical infrastructure damage, reporting over 8,000 fiber optic cable cuts within the year. Ms. Akofio-Sowah noted that these disruptions are largely the result of deliberate vandalism and poorly coordinated construction activities, which further escalate repair and maintenance costs for service providers. The combined pressure of maintaining power stability and repairing sabotaged cables is creating a structural strain on the telecommunications sector, which risks stalling the nation's digital transformation goals if left unaddressed.

Despite these infrastructure hurdles, stakeholders at the event pointed to the immense untapped potential within Ghana’s digital economy, particularly in the gaming and Esports sectors. Data shared during the summit revealed that Ghanaians spent approximately $121 million on video games in 2025, highlighting a lucrative market that could provide significant income-generation opportunities for the youth. However, experts emphasized that for the country to truly benefit, there must be a strategic shift from being mere consumers of foreign digital content to becoming innovative creators and developers within the local tech ecosystem.

The week-long deliberations concluded with an urgent call for the government and private sector to collaborate on securing critical national infrastructure. Stakeholders urged for enhanced investment in a reliable national power grid and stricter enforcement against the vandalism of telecommunications assets. As President John Mahama’s administration continues to push for a more robust digital economy, the consensus from National ICT Week remains clear: the long-term sustainability of Ghana's tech future depends heavily on the availability of affordable, reliable, and secure digital infrastructure.