Many regions in Africa still struggle with limited and expensive internet access. By providing a direct undersea connection between South Africa and Brazil, Project Waterworth will improve bandwidth, lower latency, and reduce reliance on existing routes, making internet services faster and more affordable.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has unveiled an ambitious new undersea internet cable project, dubbed Project Waterworth, it announced on February 14. The initiative spans over 50,000 km and aims to connect North and South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia, making it the longest undersea cable ever deployed.
The cable will link major regions, including the U.S. East Coast, Brazil, South Africa, India, Australia, and the U.S. West Coast. Meta asserts that the project will promote economic collaboration, enhance digital inclusion, and accelerate technological advancements in these regions.
Furthermore, Meta has announced the deployment of advanced cabling technology to enhance resilience against natural wear and potential threats. The cables will be laid in deep waters, reaching depths of approximately 7,000 meters, making them more difficult to access and sabotage. Additionally, enhanced burial techniques will be used in high-risk fault areas, such as coastal waters, to protect against ship anchors and other hazards.
With Project Waterworth, Meta is not only securing its infrastructure but also positioning itself as a leader in global internet connectivity. This investment could transform digital access and economic opportunities in the connected regions while setting new standards for undersea cable security and resilience.
Project Waterworth could significantly boost African development by improving connectivity and driving economic growth. As of January 2024, internet access in Africa varies, with Morocco at 90.7% while Central Africa lags at 10.6%, according to Statista. By providing a direct undersea link between South America and Africa, Project Waterworth aims to enhance bandwidth, reduce latency, and make internet access more affordable and widespread.
Hikmatu Bilali
