What's Happening?
Orange Group has announced its participation in a consortium to construct a new subsea cable system, named 'Via Africa', which will link the UK and Europe to South Africa. The cable will run along Africa's west coast, with 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 this route. The consortium includes Canalink, Guinéeenne de Large Bande (GUILAB), International Mauritania Telecom, Orange Côte d'Ivoire, Axian’s Silverlinks, and Sonatel. This initiative is particularly significant for African countries that have experienced disruptions in existing subsea systems due to natural events. The consortium plans to conduct a cable route study to determine the optimal path for the cable, balancing resilience and economic efficiency.
Why It's Important?
The development of the Via Africa subsea cable is crucial for improving the resilience and diversity of international connectivity for African nations, especially those along the west coast. The project addresses 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 vital for economic growth and development in the region. This project also represents a significant investment in the digital infrastructure of Africa, potentially boosting economic opportunities and integration with global markets.
What's Next?
The consortium members are set to finance a cable route study to identify the most resilient and economically viable path for the Via Africa cable. This study will be crucial in determining the technical feasibility and overall efficiency of the project. Additionally, the consortium is in the process of selecting a cable supplier, which will be a key step in moving the project forward. As the project progresses, it will be important to monitor the involvement of local governments and stakeholders, as well as the potential economic impacts on the regions involved.
