Liberia, like many African countries, relies heavily on subsea cables for its internet connectivity. These cables are crucial for providing high-speed internet access to the country and connecting it to the global network. However, when these cables are damaged or disrupted, it can have a significant impact on the country’s internet services.
The recent internet service disruptions in Liberia, attributed to a cut in the ACE (Africa Coast to Europe) subsea cable, have highlighted the vulnerability of the country’s internet infrastructure. The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) reported that the disruptions began in the early hours of Wednesday, affecting local ISPs, with Lonestar Cell MTN being particularly hard hit. Engineers are working to repair the damage, and service providers are exploring alternative routes to restore connectivity to customers.
The ACE subsea cable plays a crucial role in connecting Liberia to other countries in Africa and Europe. The cut in Segment 3 of the cable has not only impacted Liberia but also countries like Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, Ghana, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, São Tomé and Príncipe, and South Africa. However, unlike these countries, Liberia does not have multiple subsea cable links to rely on in case of such disruptions.
To address this issue, the LTA had expressed hopes of gaining a second subsea cable connection through the West Africa Regional Digital Integration Project – Project Series 2 (WARDIP-SOP2) funded by the World Bank. This project aims to improve internet connectivity in the region and reduce reliance on a single subsea cable. However, details about the specific cable involved in this project have not been disclosed, and progress on this front remains uncertain.
Another potential solution for Liberia’s internet connectivity is the Amilcar Cabral submarine telecoms cable project led by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This project aims to connect several West African countries, including Liberia, to improve regional connectivity and reduce dependence on external cables. While progress has been reported in terms of financing and project execution, the completion of the cable is still a few years away.
The recent internet service disruptions in Liberia serve as a reminder of the importance of diversifying internet connectivity options and investing in robust infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted access to the internet. As the country continues to work towards improving its digital infrastructure, initiatives like the WARDIP-SOP2 project and the Amilcar Cabral submarine cable project will play a crucial role in enhancing internet connectivity and resilience in the region.