Meta and Safaricom Forge a Digital Bridge: Daraja Cable to Revolutionize Kenya’s Internet
Kenya is on the cusp of a significant digital transformation, thanks to a pioneering collaboration between Safaricom and Meta, through its infrastructure arm, Edge Network Services. This partnership is spearheading the development of the Daraja subsea internet cable, a project designed to fundamentally strengthen Kenya’s digital infrastructure and significantly reduce its susceptibility to regional internet outages. Named ‘Daraja,’ which fittingly means ‘bridge’ in Swahili, this initiative promises to enhance internet capacity, speed, and reliability across the nation, propelling Kenya towards a more robust digital future.
Daraja: A Strategic Leap Towards Digital Independence
The Daraja subsea cable represents a crucial $23 million investment in Kenya’s digital sovereignty. Scheduled for completion in 2026, this vital link will stretch from Mombasa all the way to the Middle East, offering an impressive 24 fibre pairs. This capacity marks a substantial upgrade compared to the 8 to 16 fibre pairs typically found in many existing subsea systems, ensuring a significant boost in data transmission capabilities. This project arrives at a critical juncture for Kenya, as the nation actively seeks greater command over its digital destiny. Recent history, marked by service disruptions caused by damage to older cables like SEACOM and EASSy, has starkly highlighted the vulnerabilities associated with an over-reliance on external providers. For Safaricom, the Daraja project is more than just an infrastructure build; it’s a proactive response to these vulnerabilities and a strategic cornerstone in achieving long-term digital independence and resilience for the country. Meta’s involvement underscores a commitment to enhancing global connectivity, particularly in high-growth African markets.
The impending completion of the Daraja cable is set to future-proof Kenya’s internet landscape, providing a stable and high-speed foundation for economic growth and innovation. This monumental subsea infrastructure project not only promises to mitigate the impact of future internet disruptions but also solidifies Kenya’s position as a burgeoning digital hub in East Africa. The collaboration between a leading African telecom and a global tech giant like Meta exemplifies a powerful synergy aimed at delivering a more connected, resilient, and independent digital experience for millions.
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