Description

Until recently, Africa had been plagued by unreliable and expensive Internet bandwidth. In 2010 an unprecedented number of submarine cables went live resulting a new era of connectivity for the continent, promising greater international bandwidth, more reliable connectivity and, potentially, a reduction in prices for communication service. The launch of the submarine cables represents renewed confidence and optimism in Africa’s digital future. This study provides an overview of the impact of undersea cables in sub Saharan Africa in the context of network developments, wholesale and retail pricing, market trends and regulatory changes. Key industry challenges, drivers and restraints are discussed and strategic recommendations are presented.