Google internet cable lands in Africa, to Connect Togo to Europe
According to Google, an undersea cable that will boost internet speeds for millions of Africans has arrived in Togo, the latest phase in a multi-year program to provide customers with cheaper access across the continent.
The Equiano cable, the first of its kind to reach Africa, has twisted its way from Portugal and will increase internet speed for Togo’s 8 million citizens, according to Google.
The new line will also make stops in Nigeria, Namibia, and South Africa, with future branches connecting to additional countries in the region. It should be operational by the end of the year.
The majority of West African countries rank near the bottom of the World Bank’s global ranking of internet penetration.
Togo will be among the first to reap the benefits. According to a Google-commissioned study conducted by Africa Practice and Genesis Analytics, cable is expected to reduce internet prices by 14% by 2025.
According to Google, the cable will create 37,000 jobs and generate $193 million in GDP in Togo by 2025.
According to a GSMA Intelligence 2020 analysis, Sub-Saharan Africa remains the world’s least-connected region, with roughly a quarter of the population still lacking mobile broadband service, compared to 7% globally.
