Ghana approves fibre integration in all new roads
Ghana has taken a major leap toward building a resilient, future-ready digital economy, following Cabinet’s approval of a landmark proposal requiring fibre-optic ducts and access chambers to be integrated into all new road construction projects nationwide.
The policy, championed by the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications was announced by the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations during a high-level session at the Africa Tech Festival in Cape Town, South Africa.
Describing the move as “transformative,” the Minister said the decision positions Ghana as a continental leader in infrastructure-led digitalisation.
“What Ghana’s Cabinet has approved is this: every new road is also going to be a digital road. Contractors will now build fibre chambers alongside roads, eliminating the capital cost of digging for telecom operators and enabling faster, cheaper and more sustainable network rollout.”
The policy, referred to as the “Dig Once Policy,” follows years of technical advocacy by the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications.
Data presented by the Chamber shows that about 60 percent of fibre cuts in Ghana – a leading cause of network disruptions result from road and construction activities.
Between 2021 and the third quarter of 2025 alone, fibre repair costs are projected to reach US$69.3 million, draining industry resources and hampering productivity.
With its implementation, Ghana is expected to significantly reduce fibre cuts and network downtimes, lower broadband deployment and maintenance costs and accelerate nationwide 5G rollout and digital infrastructure expansion
In addition, the plan will protect road assets and prevent repeated excavation and drive innovation and inclusion through more reliable and affordable internet access
The decision aligns directly with the Digital Economy Policy (2024) and the National Broadband Strategy, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to building a connected, innovation-driven economy.
Welcoming the approval, CEO of the Digital Chamber of Ghana, Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah, said the policy marks a defining moment for the country’s technology ecosystem.
“This is a bold and visionary step that will shape Ghana’s digital future. By embedding fibre in all new roads, we are laying the foundation for a connected nation—one that leverages digital infrastructure to drive growth, innovation and opportunity.”
The Chamber has pledged to collaborate closely with the Ministries of Communications, Roads and Highways, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth and efficient implementation.
With this new directive, Ghana strengthens its position as one of Africa’s emerging digital leaders which sets a strong blueprint for countries seeking to build durable, inclusive and future-proof digital economies.
