Fibre optic cable to boost African internet connectivity

31 May 2011

Internet use and connectivity across east Africa is set for a boost thanks to a multi-million dollar investment in the region.

Some $400 million (£242.3 million) is being spent by Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi in new terrestrial fibre optic cables, ComputerWorld reports.

According to the news provider, the new network is expected to run nearly 16,000 kilometres and stretch from southern Sudan to Tanzania's border with Zambia.

"The terrestrial network, dubbed the East Africa Backhaul System, will connect to the submarine fibre optic cables on the east Africa[n] coast," the report stated.

Analysts in Kenya believe the move will help continue the country's efforts to promote information technology and the internet sector.

Elsewhere, consumers in Africa could find that their broadband prices are reduced as a result of a R350 million (£30.6 million) fibre system being switched on, Tech Central reports.

Passing through towns such as Middelburg, Ermelo, Piet Retief, Stanger and Empangeni, the cable was built within 14 months of receiving funding. 

Category: ICT