Cameroon Advances Plans to Join Medusa Africa Submarine Cable Project

Cameroon is taking a critical step towards modernizing its digital infrastructure by finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to join the ambitious Medusa Africa submarine cable project. According to reports by Econfin Agency, the finalized document has now been sent to the Presidency for approval. The project represents a major investment, with Cameroon’s share estimated at CFA32.8 billion (approximately US$58.6 million). Backed by the European Union and spearheaded by AFR-IX Telecom, the Medusa cable promises to revolutionize connectivity for participating countries. The system is set to go live in 2028, linking Southern Europe with nations across West and Central Africa, including Cameroon.

The Medusa Cable: A Game-Changer for Africa’s Digital Landscape

Upon its completion, the Medusa cable will connect Cameroon at the strategic port city of Kribi, adding a fifth international route to the country’s network alongside SAIL, WACS, SAT-3, and NCSCS. This expansion signals a key milestone for Cameroon, as the cable’s high capacity and multidirectional design make it a preferred upgrade over existing systems like the ageing SAT-3. The advanced infrastructure aims to attract global technology giants, such as Google, Microsoft, and Meta, to invest in and collaborate with the region. This, in turn, is expected to position Cameroon as a significant regional leader in digital connectivity and innovation.

Opportunities and Challenges for Cameroon

The Medusa cable presents significant opportunities for Cameroon to bolster its role as a regional digital hub. With enhanced connectivity, the country could experience growth in data traffic and technology-driven industries, potentially fostering new economic partnerships. However, officials have acknowledged concerns about the country’s historically low utilization rates of existing submarine cables, which stands at just 16%. This highlights the underlying challenge of developing a robust commercial strategy that ensures the Medusa cable achieves its full potential. Local telecom operator Camtel will play a pivotal role in addressing this issue by ramping up its promotional efforts and optimizing its current infrastructure.

A Strategic Vision for Regional Connectivity

The inclusion of Cameroon in the Medusa Africa submarine cable project aligns with the government’s long-term vision to improve digital accessibility and bridge the connectivity gap in the region. By providing faster and more reliable internet services, the project could unlock new opportunities for businesses, academic institutions, and individual users. Furthermore, the addition of modern infrastructure is set to benefit neighboring countries, fostering regional collaboration and economic integration. As the world becomes more digitally interconnected, initiatives like the Medusa cable underline the importance of strategic partnerships and technological investments in shaping the future of communications in Africa and beyond.