At a High Level Thematic Discussion organised by the ITU on the sidelines of the ITU PP 26 in Doha, Qatar, Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, called for a global effort to build resilient telecommunications networks. The minister presented a four‑point action plan aimed at ensuring digital infrastructure can withstand and recover from disruptions.
The priorities include coordinated infrastructure protection, effective regulation, responsible adoption of emerging technologies and stronger cross‑border cooperation. George stressed the need for regulatory frameworks that promote infrastructure sharing, diverse network routes, faster right‑of‑way approvals and timely repairs, and that resilience must reach rural communities with measurable restoration obligations for operators.
On emerging technologies, the minister highlighted the use of artificial intelligence for predictive maintenance and threat detection, digital twins for testing network performance, satellite connectivity as a backup and solar‑powered systems to sustain telecommunications sites during power outages. He noted that these innovations must be underpinned by robust cybersecurity, data protection and local technical skills.
George also called for regional cooperation through shared risk information, coordinated cable repair arrangements, faster clearance for repair vessels and increased financing to help developing countries diversify their international connectivity routes. He urged the ITU to adopt a Programme of Action on Resilience with clear responsibilities, timelines and measurable indicators to assess network performance during disruptions.
“In a digital world, connectivity is not a convenience, it’s a lifeline,” the minister said, affirming Ghana’s readiness to support this collective endeavour.
