Burundi and Zambia have entered into a groundbreaking agreement to connect both countries through an underwater fibre optic cable, marking a significant milestone in regional connectivity. This agreement was formalized at the recently concluded Digital Government Africa Summit held in Lusaka, Zambia, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in enhancing digital infrastructure across Africa. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) sets the stage for the cable to be submerged in Lake Tanganyika, establishing a vital link between Zambia’s Northern province and Burundi’s southernmost province of Makamba.
A yet-to-be-named private firm has been contracted to execute this ambitious project. Once completed, Burundi will become the ninth country connected to Zambia via cable, joining a list that includes Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. This extensive network is expected to bolster communication and information technology infrastructure in the region, fostering economic development and regional integration.
Felix Mutati, Zambia’s Minister of Science and Technology, emphasized the strategic significance of this connection, stating that it will position Zambia as a regional hub for information and communication technology. This initiative reflects Zambia’s commitment to enhancing its digital landscape, which is crucial for promoting innovation and improving access to technology across the region.
Burundi’s Minister of Communication, Technology, and Information, Léocadie Ndacayisaba, echoed this sentiment, asserting that the signing of the MoU paves the way for increased collaboration between the two nations. Such partnerships are vital in addressing the challenges of connectivity and digital access, ultimately driving growth and development in both countries.
During the summit, Mutati engaged with fellow ICT ministers from several African nations, including Seychelles, Somalia, South Sudan, and Tanzania, fostering a spirit of cooperation in advancing digital initiatives across the continent. Notably, his discussions with Nigerian senator Garba Musa Maidoki focused on the development of Zambia’s fintech sector, recognizing Nigeria’s leading role in this area.
With over 200 fintech businesses, Nigeria has demonstrated a strong commitment to financial inclusion and innovative solutions, raising over $1 billion in investments between January and September 2024. The insights gained from Nigeria’s experience will be invaluable for Zambia as it seeks to develop its fintech landscape, driving economic growth and technological advancement in the region.
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