Cameroon to Join Medusa Africa Submarine Cable: A Step Towards Regional Digital Transformation

Cameroon is taking a pivotal step in enhancing its digital infrastructure by finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to join the Medusa Africa submarine cable. According to reports from Econfin Agency, the country has already sent the agreement to the Presidency for final approval. Cameroon’s financial stake in this ambitious project, which amounts to a hefty CFA32.8 billion (approximately US$58.6 million), reflects its commitment to becoming a key player in West and Central African connectivity.

Medusa Cable: Transforming Regional Connectivity

The Medusa Africa submarine cable is an innovative system led by AFR-IX Telecom and backed by the European Union. Expected to go live in 2028, it will link Southern Europe with several countries in West and Central Africa, offering high-capacity and multidirectional communication routes. In Cameroon, the cable will connect through the coastal city of Kribi, establishing it as the fifth international route for the country. Currently, Cameroon relies on SAIL, WACS, SAT-3, and NCSCS cables to power its international connectivity. However, the new Medusa system is seen as a strategic upgrade, especially given the ageing infrastructure of the SAT-3 system.

Opportunities for Growth and Innovation

Medusa’s modern design and extensive bandwidth capacity could significantly enhance Cameroon’s digital landscape. Officials are optimistic that this new infrastructure will attract global technology giants, including hyperscalers such as Google, Microsoft, and Meta, to invest in the region. This development is expected to solidify Cameroon’s position as a critical regional digital hub, driving technological advancement and economic growth. By addressing the limitations of older systems, Medusa has the potential to revolutionize how internet services are delivered, paving the way for faster and more reliable global connectivity.

Challenges and the Path Forward

Despite these promising opportunities, Cameroon faces challenges in fully utilizing its submarine cable infrastructure. Reports indicate that only 16% of its current cable capacity is being leveraged, largely due to Camtel’s inadequate commercial strategy. Without a robust plan to capitalize on Medusa’s vast potential, the benefits of this high-capacity cable may remain underutilized. Industry experts recommend a reevaluation of Cameroon’s digital market strategies to ensure that the resources provided by Medusa are effectively deployed. This would not only optimize local and regional connectivity but also attract further foreign investments and partnerships.

As Cameroon prepares to join the Medusa Africa submarine cable project, the move signifies a bold commitment to advancing its technological infrastructure and global digital presence. With the potential to transform regional connectivity and economic opportunities, this initiative could mark a new era for the country as a leader in Africa’s burgeoning digital ecosystem.