Meta and a coalition of leading tech firms, including Google and Microsoft, have completed the infrastructure for the extensive 2Africa submarine network. This massive international subsea project promises to significantly boost internet connectivity across Africa, Asia, and Europe. With enhanced VoIP services, regions can expect accelerated economic growth and improved communication.
The backbone of the internet relies heavily on submarine cables, responsible for around 99% of global data transmission. As the threats to these pivotal cables mount, the UK’s Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy has initiated an enquiry.
Sparkle has partnered with Oceanic Environmental Cables to recycle 22,000 kilometers of unused submarine cables, significantly reducing carbon emissions. By repurposing materials, they drive eco-friendly practices.
Chinese engineers have developed technology to sever undersea communication cables, sparking concerns over potential sabotage. Patents for devices intended to cut cables, including one by Lishui University, suggest a cost-effective method for disruption.
The ITU and ICPC have united to create an advisory body focused on boosting submarine cable resilience. This critical initiative addresses vulnerabilities of cables that manage 99% of global data transfers, facing threats like damage and sabotage.
Sparkle, an international service provider, and Airtel Business have partnered to enhance VoIP connectivity between Asia and Europe via the Blue & Raman Submarine Cable Systems. This strategic agreement promises to diversify and expand global network capacity, catering to increasing data demands and ensuring seamless VoIP services for businesses and consumers.
Countries across East and Southern Africa are grappling with a widespread internet outage caused by faults in several submarine cables. According to Cloudflare Radar, which tracks internet disruptions, Tanzania is among the hardest hit, experiencing a significant drop in internet traffic to only 30% of its normal levels.
In response to the soaring global demand for fast, secure connectivity, China Mobile International Limited (CMI) is significantly investing in four new submarine cable systems. These systems promise to robustly service the substantial growth in mobile data usage in quickly digitising regions such as Africa. However, as aging cables become outdated, the race is on for fresh investment to keep pace with customer needs and the rapid development of next-gen technologies.
EXA Infrastructure, the largest dedicated digital infrastructure platform connecting Europe and North America, today announced the extension of its network in the Mediterranean, linking Crete with mainland Greece via a second diverse submarine route as part of its ongoing strategic investment to accelerate its customers growth.
Bridging the gap between past and future, the Cayman Islands are preparing to modernise their underwater cable system, crucial for their international data traffic. Despite serving admirably for decades, the two existing cables are nearing their operational longevity. As such, a $1.69 million partnership with CMC aims to overhaul connectivity, counting on expertise from firms like WFN Strategies and SBM International.
