The opening of a fiber optic cable providing broadband Internet service to millions of people in Southern and Eastern Africa is part of an ambitious plan to expand Web access and help spur Africa’s economy and technology industry.

The cable, built by Seacom, a consortium 75% controlled by African investors, is the first of about 10 new undersea connections expected to serve Africa before the middle of next year.

The expansion will cost about $2.4 billion and will help connect Africa with Europe, Asia, and parts of the Middle East at higher speeds and a lower cost. Read the rest of this entry »

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