What's Happening?
Cameroon has finalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to join the Medusa Africa submarine cable project, which is now awaiting approval from the Presidency. The project, led by AFR-IX Telecom and backed by the European Union, aims to connect Southern
Europe with West and Central Africa by 2028. Cameroon’s involvement in the project is valued at approximately $58.6 million. The Medusa cable is expected to provide a high-capacity, multidirectional upgrade over existing systems, potentially attracting major tech companies to the region.
Why It's Important?
The Medusa cable project is crucial for enhancing Cameroon's digital infrastructure, which could position the country as a regional digital hub. The high-capacity cable is expected to improve internet connectivity and attract investments from global tech giants like Google and Microsoft. However, the success of this initiative depends on Camtel's ability to effectively utilize the new infrastructure, as current utilization rates of existing cables are low. This project could significantly impact the digital economy in Cameroon and the broader region.
What's Next?
Following the approval of the MoU, Cameroon will need to develop a robust commercial strategy to maximize the benefits of the Medusa cable. This includes increasing the utilization of existing and new digital infrastructure to attract more international business. The government and Camtel may also need to engage with potential investors and tech companies to ensure the project's success and sustainability.
