The digital revolution is transforming economies worldwide, with capacity-intensive applications like cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) driving unprecedented demand for robust digital infrastructure. This surge is not just a global phenomenon—it is shaping the future of connectivity in Africa. As businesses and governments adopt these data-driven technologies, the need for expanded subsea network capacity becomes increasingly critical.
The Global Shift Towards Data-Intensive Applications
The rapid adoption of cloud computing and AI is redefining industries, enabling innovations that were previously unimaginable. According to Gartner, the global cloud computing market is expected to exceed $1 trillion by 2028, growing from $483 billion in 2022. Similarly, PwC estimates that AI could contribute an additional $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, revolutionizing sectors like healthcare, finance, and education.
These technologies demand immense bandwidth and low latency, placing unprecedented pressure on international data exchange systems. Cloud services rely on data centers that are interconnected by subsea cables, while AI applications—especially machine learning—require large-scale data processing and real-time communication. The result is a steady and exponential rise in the demand for high-capacity subsea networks, essential for supporting the global flow of information.
Africa’s Digital Transformation: Opportunities and Challenges
Africa is poised to benefit significantly from these global advancements. The continent’s digital economy is growing at an impressive pace, with increasing internet penetration and mobile broadband adoption leading the charge. The cloud services market in Africa is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15% and is projected to reach $31 billion by 2026 (African Data Centres Association). Similarly, AI-related initiatives across the continent have surged by 60% since 2020, with applications in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and education. These trends underscore Africa’s potential to leverage technology for sustainable development.
However, the region faces significant infrastructure gaps. Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for less than 1% of the world’s data center capacity, making it heavily reliant on subsea cable systems for international connectivity. High latency, limited bandwidth, and underdeveloped local infrastructure continue to present barriers to seamless digital integration. Bridging this gap is crucial for unlocking Africa’s full potential in the global digital economy.

The Subsea Network Imperative: Building Africa’s Digital Backbone
Subsea cables are the backbone of global connectivity, carrying over 95% of the world’s international data traffic. For Africa, these networks are not just critical—they are transformative. Major systems like 2Africa, SEA-ME-WE-5, and EIG interconnect the continent to the rest of the world, enabling the flow of information, commerce, and innovation.
The demand for expanded subsea network capacity is driven by the increasing adoption of bandwidth-intensive applications and the exponential growth of cross-border data flows. Cloud computing services, for instance, require robust connections between data centers located across different continents. Similarly, advancements in AI rely on high-capacity networks to process and share vast amounts of data in real-time.
According to Xalam Analytics, Africa’s demand for international bandwidth is doubling every two years, outpacing the global average. This growth highlights the urgent need for ongoing investments in subsea infrastructure to keep up with the region’s burgeoning digital economy.
Djibouti Telecom: Supporting Africa’s Digital Future
Strategically located at the crossroads of Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, Djibouti has become a critical hub for international connectivity. Djibouti Telecom plays a pivotal role in this ecosystem, offering one of the most comprehensive submarine cable networks in the region.
With three advanced cable landing stations—YAC, Haramous, and RAS DIKA—Djibouti Telecom connects Africa to over 10 submarine cable systems, including 2Africa, SEA-ME-WE-5, and EIG. These systems provide direct links to major global hubs, ensuring high-speed, low-latency connectivity that supports Africa’s growing digital needs.
Bridging the Gap: The Way Forward
The exponential growth of capacity-intensive applications like cloud computing and AI presents both opportunities and challenges for Africa. On one hand, these technologies can drive economic growth, improve service delivery, and foster innovation. On the other hand, they require significant investments in infrastructure to meet the rising demand for data capacity.

Subsea networks are at the heart of this transformation, providing the connectivity required to power Africa’s digital ambitions. By investing in advanced cable systems and fostering regional collaboration, stakeholders can bridge the gap between demand and infrastructure, ensuring that Africa remains competitive in the global digital economy.
As a leader in the region, Djibouti Telecom is committed to enabling this transformation. With its extensive submarine cable network and strategic location, the company is uniquely positioned to support Africa’s integration into the global digital ecosystem, paving the way for a smarter, more connected future.
The rise of cloud computing and AI underscores the need for robust digital infrastructure. For Africa, this represents a unique opportunity to leapfrog into the future. By expanding subsea network capacity and addressing infrastructure gaps, the continent can unlock new opportunities for innovation, economic growth, and social development.
Djibouti Telecom invites stakeholders across the industry to collaborate in building a resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking digital ecosystem. Together, we can drive Africa’s digital transformation and ensure its place in the global digital landscape.