Djibouti Telecom is set to enhance regional connectivity by extending the DARE1 submarine cable along Africa’s east coast. This expansion aims to boost capacity, provide alternative routes, and support businesses, cloud services, and telecom operators across the continent. The DARE1 system, operational since 2021, currently connects Djibouti City with Bosaso and Mogadishu in Somalia, and Mombasa, Kenya, offering 36 Tbps of bandwidth through three fiber pairs. Partners include Hormuud Telecom Somalia, Somtel International, and Telkom Kenya. The extension will stretch approximately 3,200–3,500 km southward to Mtunzini in South Africa, with strategic landings in Tanzania, Mozambique, and Madagascar. Tanzania will have landings in Dar es Salaam and Mtwara, Mozambique in Nakala, Beira, and Maputo, and Madagascar in Mahajanga and Toliary. All new segments will connect at the Mombasa trunk station, ensuring integration with the current network. This expansion is designed to improve network resilience and reduce latency, providing more reliable paths for data traffic. It also addresses the increasing demand for robust digital infrastructure in East and Southern Africa. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with operations projected for 2028. Analysts believe the extended DARE1 cable could play a crucial role in strengthening the digital ecosystem, supporting faster cloud services, enterprise connectivity, and broader internet access throughout the region. This project signifies a step towards a more connected, resilient, and digitally capable continent.
How is Djibouti Telecom expanding the DARE1 cable in Africa?
