PTCL has announced that the Africa-1 submarine cable project is set to become fully operational by 2026. The development, disclosed in a stock exchange filing on Friday, marks a major milestone in Pakistan’s digital infrastructure, promising enhanced global connectivity.
The Africa-1 project is a high-capacity undersea cable designed to link Pakistan with key regions, including the United Arab Emirates, Europe, and Africa. The initiative includes multiple landing stations along its extensive route, ensuring robust and uninterrupted international internet connectivity. PTCL emphasized that the project aligns with its long-term strategy to strengthen Pakistan’s telecommunication sector and facilitate high-speed internet access for businesses and consumers.
The project was initially approved in November 2020 when PTCL’s Board of Directors sanctioned an investment of $59.5 million. Since 2021, the company has allocated a portion of its capital expenditure (CAPEX) annually to finance the project. By 2025, PTCL expects to have completed approximately 75% of the total investment, with the remaining funds allocated within the year to ensure the project reaches full completion. The submarine cable is projected to be Ready for Service (RFS) by the first quarter of 2026. Upon completion, PTCL will begin generating revenue from the initiative, further strengthening its financial position. The company anticipates that the cable will significantly contribute to its top-line growth by enhancing data transmission capabilities and supporting Pakistan’s evolving digital ecosystem.
In a significant step toward completing the project, PTCL will host a groundbreaking ceremony on February 22, 2025. The event, set to take place at PTCL’s landing site at Sea View, Karachi, will mark the official connection of Pakistan to the Africa-1 submarine cable network. This milestone is expected to be a transformative development, positioning Pakistan as a stronger player in global digital connectivity. The launch of Africa-1 comes at a crucial time for Pakistan, as the country has experienced intermittent internet disruptions in recent months. The new submarine cable aims to enhance reliability, reduce latency, and offer improved bandwidth for users across Pakistan. It is expected to support the growing demand for high-speed internet in various sectors, including business, education, and e-commerce.
Industry experts view Africa-1 as a game-changer for Pakistan’s digital landscape. By integrating Pakistan with a broader international network, the cable will not only improve the quality of internet services but also create new opportunities for IT exports, digital businesses, and foreign investments in the technology sector. With the government’s increasing focus on digital transformation and connectivity, projects like Africa-1 reinforce Pakistan’s commitment to expanding its telecommunication infrastructure. As the submarine cable moves toward completion, PTCL remains optimistic about the positive impact it will have on the nation’s digital economy.
