Core Insights - The modern communication era in Africa began with the launch of the SAT-3/SAFE submarine cable system in 2001, ending the region's reliance on expensive satellite communications [1] - Since 2015, multinational tech giants like Google and Meta, along with Chinese companies, have significantly invested in Africa's communication infrastructure [1] - By 2025, Africa's international internet bandwidth is projected to grow at an annual rate of 38%, reaching a total capacity of 1835 Tbps [1] Infrastructure Development - Google launched the Equiano cable in 2023 and is planning the first direct cable from Africa to Australia, named Umoja [1] - Meta is leading the "2Africa" project, which aims to establish the largest circular submarine cable system around the African continent [1] - Chinese company HMN Tech activated the PEACE submarine cable in Africa in 2022 [1] Connectivity Statistics - As of early 2023, Africa is connected to 77 submarine cable systems, including both operational and under-construction projects [1] - Egypt and South Africa have the highest concentration of submarine cable landing points, with 19 and 11 respectively [1]