Dr Abednego A. Lamangin Bandim, Member of Parliament for Bunkpurugu Constituency, has called on telecommunication operators to improve their response to network disruptions in Northern Ghana. He also urged the National Communications Authority (NCA) to monitor the frequency and duration of such disruptions. Dr Bandim, Chairman of Parliament's Information and Communications Committee, emphasized that prolonged network disruptions could have serious implications for healthcare, education, businesses, emergency response, and public safety.
Dr Bandim's concerns were heightened by the lack of timely communication to consumers during major disruptions. He personally experienced a major disruption to the MTN network while traveling from Salaga to Tamale on September 26, 2026. The network went down at around 1100 hours and was not restored until 1800 hours. He also received reports of similar disruptions in several communities in the Northern sector, including parts of Damongo and Bunkpurugu.
Dr Bandim acknowledged that telecommunication operators may encounter unforeseen technical challenges, such as fibre cuts and infrastructure-related faults. However, he emphasized that such challenges should not prevent operators from providing timely information to affected consumers. The MP noted that although some faults may make it impossible for operators to provide advance notice, this should not mean a complete absence of communication.
Dr Bandim urged network operators to prioritize consumers in their response to service disruptions. He emphasized that it is not sufficient for operators to communicate only with relevant authorities while leaving affected consumers uninformed. Consumers who pay for and depend on telecommunication services deserve to know when a significant disruption occurs, what caused it, and what is being done to restore service.
The MP specifically urged MTN Ghana to strengthen its communication protocols and ensure that consumers are promptly informed during major network disruptions. He also appealed to the NCA to monitor the frequency and duration of network disruptions, particularly in Northern Ghana, and ensure that telecommunication service providers meet their obligations to consumers.
Dr Bandim stated that he would continue to monitor the situation and engage relevant stakeholders to understand the causes of recurring disruptions and measures being taken to prevent them. He emphasized that reliable telecommunication services are essential to healthcare, education, commerce, emergency response, and everyday life.
The MP's call to action highlights the need for telecom operators and regulators to prioritize consumer needs during network disruptions. With reliable telecommunication services being crucial to various aspects of life, stakeholders must work together to ensure that consumers in Northern Ghana receive reliable services and timely information during disruptions.
Key points
- Dr Abednego A. Lamangin Bandim urges telecom operators to strengthen response to network disruptions in Northern Ghana.
- The MP emphasizes the need for timely communication to consumers during major disruptions.
- Dr Bandim appeals to the NCA to monitor the frequency and duration of network disruptions in Northern Ghana.
