Cameroon to Join Medusa Africa Submarine Cable Project for Enhanced Connectivity

Cameroon is taking significant steps to strengthen its position as a regional digital hub by joining the ambitious Medusa Africa Submarine Cable project. According to reports from Econfin Agency, the government has finalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for its participation in the project, which is now awaiting approval from the Presidency. The country’s financial contribution to the initiative is estimated at CFA32.8 billion (US$58.6 million), highlighting its commitment to advancing digital infrastructure. The Medusa cable, spearheaded by AFR-IX Telecom and backed by the European Union, promises to be a transformative connectivity solution designed to link Southern Europe with West and Central Africa by 2028.

Enhancing Cameroon’s International Connectivity

Once operational, Medusa will establish a landing point in Kribi, Cameroon, effectively adding a fifth international route for the nation’s telecommunications network. This will complement the existing systems, which include SAIL, WACS, SAT-3, and NCSCS. What sets Medusa apart is its high-capacity and multidirectional design, making it a strategic upgrade over the older SAT-3 system. Authorities hope that the enhanced connectivity will attract global technology giants such as Google, Microsoft, and Meta, who rely heavily on robust digital infrastructure to expand their operations in emerging markets like Africa.

A Strategic Opportunity Amid Challenges

Officials see the Medusa cable as a key opportunity to position Cameroon as a digital hub for the region. However, there are important challenges to address. Reports note that Camtel, the national telecommunications provider, currently utilizes only 16% of the bandwidth available from existing submarine cables. This low usage rate suggests that without a strong commercial and operational strategy, Cameroon might struggle to fully leverage the benefits offered by the Medusa project. Expanding partnerships, improving marketing strategies, and addressing inefficiencies are critical steps to maximize the initiative’s potential.

The Broader Implications of the Medusa Cable

More than just improving local connectivity, the Medusa Africa Submarine Cable represents a broader commitment to regional integration and technological advancement. With its cutting-edge design and expansive coverage, the system is expected to improve internet speed, reduce latency, and create new opportunities for businesses and individuals alike. Moreover, this development aligns with global trends where the demand for enhanced digital infrastructure is steadily rising, particularly in Africa, where internet penetration is growing rapidly. Cameroon’s involvement in this large-scale project underscores its ambition to become a leader in the continent’s digital transformation.