Tanzania and Kenya connect optic fibre networks to boost East Africa's digital future
Tanzania and Kenya have launched a new internet connection point at their shared border, in a move that could improve digital access and protect against data outages across East and Central Africa.
The new connection, known as a redundancy route, links the two countries' national fibre optic networks at the Horohoro border post.
It gives Tanzania an alternative path to global internet cables based in Kenya, in case of problems with its own sea cables in Dar es Salaam.
The project is part of efforts by both governments to improve digital services, support economic growth, and build a stronger regional internet system.
Tanzania’s Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Jerry Silaa, said the new route strengthens the country’s online access.
“This route guarantees that Tanzania remains digitally connected, even if there are issues with our marine landing stations in Dar es Salaam,” he said.
Tanzania is now digitally linked with six neighbouring countries: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Zambia, and Mozambique.
There are also plans to extend the network to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Officials say this will help more people across the region access faster and more reliable internet.
The new connection can move large amounts of data very quickly, helping businesses, banks, schools and hospitals that rely on strong internet links.
According to Tanzania Telecommunications Corporation, the route runs at speeds of up to 1.6 terabits per second, making it one of the fastest in the region.
Kenya’s Information Minister, William Kabogo Gitau, said the launch shows how serious East Africa is about building a modern digital economy.
He described it as a sign of strong cooperation between the two countries and a step towards a more united regional network. He also said the Horohoro border could become a smart post for real-time data sharing between the two governments.
The fibre network in Tanzania now stretches over 13,800 kilometres and reaches more than 100 districts. The government hopes to expand it to 30 more districts this year.
The project dates back to a 2005 government goal of turning Tanzania into a regional tech hub.
Since the first cables were laid in 2009, the country has steadily grown its digital capacity, helping it support rising internet use and attract regional traffic.
Disclaimer: The image used in this article is AI-generated
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
