The urgent need for the government to bolster the National Information Technology Agency (NITA) cannot be overstated, as it is crucial to safeguarding the country against unforeseen internet disruptions. The recent internet outages have not only resulted in significant financial losses and security challenges but have also disrupted digital services across both governmental and private sectors. Without adequate support for our digital infrastructure, these disruptions will continue to have devastating consequences.
IT Expert and Cyber Security Consultant Kwadwo Kyei Amoako, speaking on Simpieso political talk show on 92.3 FM Ahotor, hosted by Emmanuel Amartey (Alaska De Don) in Accra, emphasized the necessity for the government to diversify its investments in internet connectivity. Relying solely on fibre optic cables leaves the nation vulnerable to disruptions, underscoring the need to fortify NITA’s resources to provide a backup service for our internet infrastructure.
Amoako’s plea is prompted by the recent internet disruptions caused by cuts to undersea fibre optic cables, highlighting the urgency of investing in alternative technologies for enhanced security and accessibility. He advocates for a strategic shift toward data independence, suggesting that investing in domestically owned satellites could offer viable solutions.
Despite claims of progress in digitalization, Ghana lacks domestically owned satellites, leaving the nation overly reliant on third-party network operators. Amoako stresses that this dependence poses security risks and compromises the nation’s autonomy in communication. He asserts that investing in our own digital infrastructure is imperative for security, independence, and accessibility.
Amoako warns against complacency, urging authorities to rethink Ghana’s data infrastructure and make strategic investments that will pave the way for data independence. He emphasizes the need to incorporate vital features into digital platforms to prevent vulnerabilities and ensure the integrity of data, citing issues with data gathering for the Ghana Card as a pertinent example.
In conclusion, Amoako’s call for bolstering NITA and investing in alternative internet technologies underscores the critical importance of securing Ghana’s digital infrastructure. Failure to do so not only jeopardizes national security and economic stability but also undermines the nation’s autonomy in the digital age.
[For further communication: AYM Kukah, Email: kukahalexander7@gmail.com]
