Internet Disruptions Plague West African Coast: Urgent Need for Resilient Infrastructure

The root cause of these disruptions, as outlined in a press release from mobile telephone operator associations, is attributed to incidents impacting essential submarine fiber optic cables, namely WACS, SAT3, and MainOne, which serve as lifelines for Internet access in the region. While the exact origins of these incidents are yet to be determined, technical teams are tirelessly working to restore connectivity at the earliest.

Economic Implications and Concerns: The disruption of the Internet network not only raises alarms for citizens but also casts a shadow over the economy as a whole. Internet shutdowns have profound implications for economic growth, leading to a downturn in commercial activities, dwindling tax revenues, and a dent in Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The situation portends dire economic consequences for the affected countries.

Business Operations Hindered: The impact of the disruptions is already palpable on the business front. The lack of internet connectivity poses a significant hurdle to business operations, jeopardizing the productivity and profitability of local enterprises. A manager of a tourism company aptly encapsulates the sentiment of despair among economic actors, noting that the absence of internet translates to a halt in work and exacerbates the challenges of conducting business in Cameroon.

Recurring Vulnerabilities and the Need for Resilient Infrastructure: This disruption is not an isolated incident in Cameroon. Similar disruptions were witnessed in September 2023, stemming from incidents on the WACS submarine cable. While Camtel, the historic telecoms operator, mobilized its teams to restore connectivity promptly, the recurrence of such incidents underscores the vulnerability of the Internet network in the region. There is an urgent imperative to invest in more resilient infrastructure to mitigate the risks posed by such disruptions.

Call for Strengthened Regional Cooperation: As technical teams strive to resolve the current challenges, there is a pressing need for enhanced regional cooperation to ensure stable and reliable internet connectivity across West Africa. These recurring disruptions underscore the importance of collaborative efforts in bolstering the resilience of the Internet infrastructure. By pooling resources and expertise, the region can navigate through these challenges and pave the way for a more robust and resilient internet ecosystem.