Vodacom Mozambique, a prominent telecommunications provider, has announced the operational launch of the 2Africa submarine cable in Nacala-Porto, marking a significant advancement in the country’s digital infrastructure. This undersea cable installation holds distinction as the first to land in the northern region of Mozambique. Alongside this development, Vodacom has established a cutting-edge data facility within the same locality.
In a concerted effort to address the digital disparity prevalent in Mozambique, Vodacom’s introduction of the 2Africa cable is anticipated to catalyze enhanced access to robust connectivity. The telecom company asserts that this strategic move will facilitate the provisioning of accelerated 4G, 5G, and fixed broadband internet services, aligned with the overarching goals of sustainable development.
The 2Africa initiative, launched in May 2020, encompasses a sprawling cable system spanning 45,000 kilometers, interlinking 19 African nations and an aggregate of 33 countries. This monumental endeavor has been realized through collaborative efforts, with esteemed international partners including China Mobile International Limited, Meta, Bayobab, Orange, center3, Telecom Egypt, Vodafone Group, and WIOCC.
Scheduled for completion by 2024, the 2Africa project is poised to yield substantial economic dividends for the continent. Projections indicate that the cable’s commissioning could potentially contribute an economic impact ranging from US$26.2 to 36.9 billion, constituting a notable percentage of Africa’s GDP over a span of two to three years.
This development coincides with Vodacom’s recent announcement of the commencement of 5G services, timed to commemorate the company’s two decades of operations within the Southern African landscape. Presently, Vodacom’s 5G services are accessible in diverse regions, including Maputo, Matola, Nampula’s central district, downtown Nacala, Munhava, Maquinino, Chipanga areas, Beira, and Tete.