Ethio telecom Teams Up with Djibouti Telecom, Sudatel to Launch Terrestrial Internet Network

Ethio telecom has partnered with Djibouti and Sudatel telecoms to launch the Horizon Fiber Initiative, an ambitious project to establish a terrestrial fiber-optic network linking Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Sudan.

When completed, it provides an alternative to the frequently disrupted submarine cables in the Red Sea. Submarine cables in the region have been plagued by interruptions caused by conflicts, incidents, natural disasters, sabotage, and general degradation. These disruptions have led to prolonged internet outages and hefty repair bills. Ethio telecom reported that previous repairs cost between 100,000 dollars and half a million dollars. A technical glitch in February this year escalated costs to 1.5 million dollars and took four months to resolve.

The Horizon Fiber Initiative seeks to circumvent these vulnerabilities by creating a redundant communication link connecting Africa to Europe and Asia overland.

Currently, Africa relies on more than 16 submarine cables with a combined capacity of 20 terabits, primarily owned by global tech giants like Google, Meta, and Microsoft. These undersea cables carry over 90pc of intercontinental internet traffic. The Horizon Fiber Initiative plans to reduce this dependency by providing a terrestrial alternative.

The first phase of the project is expected to deliver a capacity of one terabit and is slated for completion by April 2025.

"This integration will be executed in phases, leveraging our existing resources," said Ethio telecom CEO Frehiwot Tamiru, after signing the deal today at the Skylight Hotel, on Africa Avenue (Bole Road).

According to Frehiwot, the new fiber lines are projected to have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years.

Sudatel CEO, Mohammed Abdallah Taha, stated Sudan's strategic location and extensive fiber infrastructure, positioning the company as a regional leader in connectivity. Sudatel operates in Sudan, Senegal, and Mauritius, reinforcing its footprint in African telecommunications. Djibouti Telecom Director General, Assoweh Bouh, described the initiative as crucial for improving digital connectivity and regional integration.

"This project is a major step toward promoting stronger ties and promoting economic growth in the region," he said.

By establishing a land-based network, the three telecom companies hope to enhance the reliability of internet services.