In a proactive move, telecommunications giant MTN has tapped into the expertise of international partners to improve internet access for its stakeholders in Ghana.
Following the recent destruction of the West African Cable System (WACS), MTN released a statement on Monday expressing gratitude to its customers for their patience during this unforeseen event.
Y'ello Valued Customer,
We would like to express our gratitude to you for your patience and understanding during the ongoing network disruptions. pic.twitter.com/1e6keyesAd
— MTN Ghana (@MTNGhana) March 18, 2024
As the largest telecommunications network in Ghana, serving over 12 million users, MTN has assured its customers that it is actively engaging international partners to improve data and overall network connections throughout the country. Similar initiatives are reportedly being rolled out across West Africa.
The temporary solutions being Implemented by MTN are poised to benefit a wide array of entities, including companies, individuals, and businesses heavily reliant on internet connectivity for their operations. Beyond the immediate impact on businesses, these strategies are anticipated to foster enhanced human interaction within both business and social communities.
Last Thursday’s damage to the West African Cable System (WACS), responsible for facilitating internet connectivity, has prompted investigations into its cause. Engineers assessing the situation have cautioned that repairs could span several months.
Consequently, the data outage has led to restricted internet access in some regions, with connectivity limited to a handful of applications such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat. In more severe cases, even these apps were rendered inaccessible, posing challenges for businesses and hindering family interactions.
In response to the disruption, businesses and individuals have turned to alternative solutions, including Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and alternate service providers like AirtelTigo, to sustain their daily activities, both professional and personal. Additionally, the National Communication Authority has indicated its efforts to expedite the licensing process for satellite gateway earth solutions, such as Elon Musk’s Starlink and OneWeb, aimed at enhancing internet connectivity across Ghana.
As MTN Ghana collaborates with international partners to mitigate the impact of the WACS cable damage, the focus remains on restoring seamless internet access for all stakeholders. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of leveraging global expertise to address local challenges and ensure uninterrupted connectivity in an increasingly digitized world.
By Noel Nortei
