Eastern Africa Submarine Cable System (EASSy), the 10,000km network connecting the east coast of Africa, has now launched commercial services.
In a statement on EASSy’s website, the group hails the fibre optic system, which is supported by more than 25…
Eastern Africa Submarine Cable System (EASSy), the 10,000km network connecting the east coast of Africa, has now launched commercial services.
In a statement on EASSy’s website, the group hails the fibre optic system, which is supported by more than 25 telecommunications operators, as the most reliable system serving the African continent.
Ajay Chitkara, chief executive of the global data business of India’s Bharti Airtel, said the group has invested more than US$500m in the EASSy project over the last two years.
“The commencement of EASSy cable system is a significant step in our journey to create a robust undersea cable infrastructure for our customers,” said Chitkara.
“It will also safeguard and ensure all time connectivity of East African countries with the world. This will facilitate proliferation of ICT services thereby ensuring macro economic development of the region.”
Last year, Eassy completed a financing round with a 10-year loan of US$263m. This, along with the equity from the operators, is expected to cover its costs forecast of US$247m, which excludes construction of the cable stations, ancillary services and backhaul networks
