Niger and Algeria have officially launched operations of a trans-Saharan fibre optic backbone linking the two countries, strengthening digital connectivity and telecommunications cooperation.
The launch ceremony was held on 6 October 2026 in Assamaka, on the Niger-Algeria border, and was jointly chaired by Niger’s Minister of Communication and New Information Technologies, Hamani Kargné, and Algeria’s Minister of Post and Telecommunications, Sid-Ali Zerrouki.
Officials and representatives from relevant agencies in both countries also attended the ceremony, which marked the operational launch of the new cross-border digital infrastructure.
The fibre optic link is expected to improve digital interconnection between Niger and Algeria while supporting the expansion of telecommunications networks. The project is also expected to facilitate greater cooperation and exchanges in information and communication technologies.
For Niger, the infrastructure could create further opportunities for the development of its telecommunications sector while strengthening connectivity with Algeria and supporting wider digital development.
The launch represents another step in the bilateral relationship between Niger and Algeria as both countries expand cooperation around telecommunications and digital infrastructure.
