Mr Viral
Ethio Telecom, Djibouti Telecom, and Sudatel Telecom Group for the Horizon Fiber Initiative Establishing a Multi-Terabit Terrestrial Fiber Optic Link Connecting Africa to Europe and Asia
Dubbed Horizon Fiber, the initiative is expected to revolutionize digital connectivity across Africa, creating seamless communication links from the Horn of Africa to Europe and Asia.
According to Ethio telecom: “The Horizon Fiber Initiative is a transformative project aligned with Africa’s Digital Transformation Strategy 2030. It advances Ethiopia’s digital journey and strengthens Africa’s integration into the global digital economy.”
The firms are developing a Multi-Terabit, redundant terrestrial fiber optic network to deliver faster, more reliable, and robust connectivity, laying the foundation for Africa’s digital transformation.
Advancing Connectivity Across Borders
Since June 2024, a technical team comprising representatives from the three telecom giants has been driving the initiative forward. Their work includes a detailed feasibility study, problem analysis, and recommendations to ensure the project’s success. The partners plan to finalize contracts by January 2024 and roll out services by April 2025.
Leveraging the combined infrastructure and technical expertise of Ethio telecom, Djibouti Telecom, and Sudatel Telecom Group, the project aims to create a robust network for high-speed data transmission. The initiative is expected to enhance communication, reduce latency, and improve access to reliable connectivity for businesses and individuals alike.
The Horizon Fiber Initiative will provide an alternative to existing pathways, boosting redundancy and network resilience. Offer direct, efficient data transmission routes to improve user experiences for hyperscalers, content providers, and end-users and drive digital transformation, supports local industries, and facilitates international trade.
It will also open up new opportunities for hyperscalers, content providers, and wholesalers, enabling growth across Europe, Asia, and beyond and bring together expertise and resources to deliver superior services, strengthening market positions in a competitive landscape.
Addressing Submarine Cable Challenges
The Horizon Fiber Initiative provides a transformative solution to the frequent disruptions faced by submarine cables in the Red Sea. Challenges such as anchoring accidents, natural disasters, and conflicts often cause significant service interruptions and costly repairs.
This terrestrial fiber network, spanning Djibouti, Sudan, and Ethiopia, to reduces deployment and maintenance costs compared to submarine cables, ensure faster, more accessible repairs to minimize downtime, reduce dependence on vulnerable submarine cables, enhancing regional connectivity and encourage resource sharing and expertise among the participating nations.
Horizon Fiber Initiative aims o strengthen Africa’s connectivity and accelerates its digital transformation, positioning the continent as a crucial player in the global digital economy.
Revolutionizing Regional and Global Networks
With its high-capacity, low-latency network, the Horizon Fiber Initiative will bridge Africa to major global markets, supporting the needs of hyperscalers and content providers. It exemplifies the commitment of Ethio telecom, Djibouti Telecom, and Sudatel Telecom Group to advancing technological innovation and fostering economic growth.
Towards a Digitally Inclusive Future
This partnership underscores the commitment of Ethio telecom, Djibouti Telecom, and Sudatel Telecom Group to bridging the digital divide. The Horizon Fiber Initiative’s secure, scalable, and high-speed connectivity positions Africa as a key driver in the global digital ecosystem.
“This milestone project reflects our dedication to innovation and collaboration, offering exceptional connectivity solutions for our customers and communities,” said Mohamed Assoweh Bouh, Director General of Djibouti Telecom.
Readers 68
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings