Africa rejoices as subsea cable network lands in Genoa

The highly anticipated 2Africa subsea cable system has landed in Genoa, Italy. This, vows the 2Africa consortium, sets the tone for more landings in the coming months as the cable is set to ultimately connect three billion people.

By 2024, it would have been extended to a total of 46 locations, according to a news release issued by 2Africa. The consortium is comprised of China Mobile International, Meta, MTN GlobalConnect, Orange, stc, Telecom Egypt, Vodafone and WIOCC.

Announced in May 2020, the 2Africa subsea cable system together with its Pearls extension are designed to deliver “seamless international connectivity” to 36% of the global population. It will connect three continents, Africa, Europe and Asia.

Economic and social benefits

At 45 000km, it will be the longest subsea cable ever deployed, serving communities that rely on the internet for services from education to healthcare and business, with all experiencing the economic and social benefits that come from this increased connectivity.

Vodafone, the 2Africa landing party in Genoa, has partnered with Equinix to land the cable directly into the Equinix Carrier Neutral Data Center (CNDC), with Retelit delivering the fronthaul. As with all 2Africa cable landings, capacity will be available to service providers in Genoa on a fair and equitable basis, encouraging and supporting the development of a healthy internet ecosystem.

Working with a local Italian operator, 2Africa has also developed a new terrestrial route connecting the Genoa cable landing station (CLS) directly to major CNDCs in Milan.

Good progress on the survey work and manufacturing continues with the 2Africa project remaining on track for completion in 2024.

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