What's Happening?
Orange Group has announced its participation in a consortium of telecommunications companies to construct a new subsea cable system named 'Via Africa'. This cable will connect the UK, France, and Portugal to South Africa, with additional landing points
in the Canary Islands, Mauritania, Senegal, Guinea, Côte d'Ivoire, and Nigeria. The project aims to enhance connectivity diversity and resilience for countries along Africa's west coast. The consortium includes Canalink, Guinéeenne de Large Bande, International Mauritania Telecom, Orange Côte d'Ivoire, Silverlinks, and Sonatel. The initiative is a response to previous disruptions in existing subsea systems caused by an undersea rock fall near Côte d'Ivoire in 2024. The consortium plans to conduct a cable route study to determine the optimal path for the cable, balancing resilience, technical feasibility, and economic efficiency.
Why It's Important?
The development of the Via Africa subsea cable is significant for improving international connectivity and resilience for African countries, particularly those along the west coast. This project addresses the vulnerabilities exposed by previous disruptions in existing subsea systems, which have highlighted the need for more robust infrastructure. By providing an alternative route, the cable is expected to enhance the reliability of internet and communication services, which are crucial for economic development and integration into the global digital economy. The project also represents a strategic investment in Africa's telecommunications infrastructure, potentially attracting further investments and fostering regional cooperation.
What's Next?
The consortium members will proceed with financing a cable route study to identify the best path for the Via Africa cable. This study will consider factors such as resilience, technical feasibility, and economic efficiency. Additionally, the consortium is in the process of selecting a cable supplier for the project. As the project progresses, stakeholders will likely monitor its impact on regional connectivity and economic development. The successful implementation of the cable could lead to further investments in similar infrastructure projects across the continent.
