RCA seeks new digital connections

The Central African Republic (RCA) is working to improve its international internet connections, which have previously been limited due to its landlocked status and lack of direct access to undersea cables. The country now has two fiber-optic links to its neighbors but is exploring a third route through the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to reach global networks.

Officials discuss fiber-optic link with DRC

RCA’s Minister of Digital Economy, Posts and Telecommunications, Roger Andjalandji, and DRC’s counterpart, Augustin Kibassa Maliba, discussed a potential fiber-optic interconnection during a digital sovereignty roundtable in Moscow on October 8. While they acknowledged the importance of the project, no timeline or funding plan was announced.

DRC’s undersea cables offer access to RCA

Connecting the two countries’ fiber networks would allow RCA to access international internet through undersea cables in Moanda, DRC. Two such cables are already in place: 2Africa and the West Africa Cable System (WACS), which link Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

2Africa cable offers high-speed connectivity

The 2Africa cable, launched in 2020 by Meta and other telecom companies, spans about 45,000 km and can carry up to 180 terabits per second of data. Airtel activated 200 gigabits per second of its capacity in the DRC on December 18, 2025, enhancing regional internet access.

WACS provides long-standing connectivity

The West Africa Cable System (WACS), a 14,530 km undersea cable launched in 2012, connects South Africa to the UK and serves several African countries, including the DRC. It has been upgraded to carry up to 14.5 terabits per second of data, offering a reliable alternative to newer systems.

RCA’s existing routes face risks

Currently, the RCA connects to international networks through Cameroon and the Republic of the Congo via the Central African Backbone (CAB) project. However, reliance on land corridors has led to disruptions, such as vandalism in March 2026, which damaged parts of the network and caused service outages.

RCA explores eastern alternatives

To reduce risks, the RCA is looking eastward, including a proposed connectivity project with South Sudan announced in May 2026. While details remain unclear, the country’s proximity to East African hubs like Djibouti and Kenya may offer new opportunities for internet expansion.

More routes improve resilience

Having multiple access routes to international connectivity is seen as critical for the RCA’s digital resilience. Alternative links can maintain internet traffic during disruptions, provided the networks are independent and have enough capacity. This could also increase the amount of bandwidth available to the country as demand grows.

Better connectivity could lower internet costs

According to a 2024 World Bank report, doubling undersea cable capacity in Africa could reduce fixed broadband prices by 7% and mobile broadband by 13%. In 2026, RCA officials noted that connecting to undersea cables through neighboring countries had already boosted internet access, with penetration rising from 15.5% in early 2025 to 30%.