Meta Platforms Inc. has officially partnered with Safaricom PLC on a groundbreaking USD 2.9-billion subsea cable project aimed at bolstering internet infrastructure between Oman and Mombasa, Kenya. The initiative, known as the Daraja Fibre Optic Cable, is set to become a pivotal component of East Africa’s digital landscape.
Meta’s subsidiary, Edge Network Services Ltd., has secured a stake in the Daraja project, contributing approximately USD 23 million to the Kenyan segment of the 4,108-kilometer cable system. This investment aligns with Meta’s broader strategy to expand its global subsea infrastructure, complementing initiatives like the 2Africa and Pearls cable systems.
Technical Specifications and Project Timeline
The Daraja system is designed with 24 fiber pairs, surpassing the typical 8 to 16 pairs found in existing cables. This configuration is expected to substantially increase bandwidth, supporting the expansion of 4G, 5G, and fixed broadband services across the region.
According to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report filed with Kenya’s National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the project is slated to go live in 2026.
The cable will land at Nyali Beach in Mombasa, with routes extending into Tanzanian waters, thereby enhancing regional connectivity and internet reliability.
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Enhancing Network Resilience
The Daraja project aims to mitigate the risks associated with reliance on existing subsea cables, such as SEACOM and Telkom Kenya, which have previously experienced disruptions affecting internet services in Kenya. By establishing an independent and robust connection between Oman and Mombasa, the Daraja cable will provide greater network resilience and reduce the potential for service outages.
Economic and Social Implications
The Daraja cable is anticipated to have far-reaching economic and social impacts. By enhancing internet speeds and reliability, the project is expected to foster growth in sectors such as e-commerce, education, and digital services. Additionally, the increased capacity will support the Kenyan government’s efforts to promote digital inclusion and bridge the connectivity gap in underserved areas.
The Meta-Safaricom partnership on the Daraja subsea cable represents a significant advancement in East Africa’s digital infrastructure.
With its projected completion in 2026, the project is set to play a crucial role in shaping the region’s technological future, driving economic development, and improving the quality of life for millions of people.
