Accra: Mr. Sam Nartey George, the Minister of Communication and Digitalisation, has stressed the vital necessity of implementing standardised specifications to safeguard Ghana’s fibre optic infrastructure. The Minister highlighted that, similar to essential utilities like water and electricity, digital infrastructure such as fibre optic cables should be considered a crucial lifeline during roadworks.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister made these remarks while speaking virtually at the 24th edition of the Chamber of Telecommunications Knowledge Forum in Accra. The event was attended by the Director-General of the National Communications Authority (NCA) and representatives from various telecommunications companies across Ghana. The forum, themed ‘Leveraging Fibre for Accelerated Development,’ also featured the unveiling of the Telecommunication Industry Optic Fibre Minimum Specifications and Standards Manual. This newly released document aims to guide and harmonize the deployment of fibre optic infrastructure throughout the country.
The manual, developed by the industry, sets the benchmark for fibre optic deployment in Ghana, marking a collective journey towards resilient and future-ready infrastructure. Mr. Nartey George revealed ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Roads and Highways to ensure better coordination and protection of these crucial communication lines during infrastructure development projects.
The Minister praised the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications’ initiative in creating industry-wide fibre optic minimum specifications and standards. He described the document as not only a technical guide but also a vital regulatory and governance tool that will ensure uniformity, safety, and interoperability across all fibre deployments, both underground and aerial.
Mr. Nartey George cautioned that without these standardised specifications, Ghana risks facing fragmentation, continued destruction of infrastructure, inefficiency, and high maintenance costs. He emphasized that the standards, covering aspects from trenching depth to splicing procedures, are essential as the nation aims to increase broadband coverage, particularly in rural communities.
The Minister declared that protecting the fibre infrastructure is non-negotiable and called for a collective effort from all stakeholders, including communication operators, infrastructure providers, municipalities, and contractors. He urged them to actively participate in shaping Ghana’s fibre future by adhering to and refining standards. A robust and resilient fibre infrastructure, he noted, is essential for achieving this goal and positioning Ghana as a digital hub in West Africa.
Additionally, he commended the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, the technical team, and all stakeholders for their contributions to this significant milestone. The Minister also expressed support for the regulator, the National Communications Authority (NCA), in its efforts to convert these industry standards into national standards.
