• Bayobab has activated a new cross-border fiber link between Zambia and Mozambique.

• The interconnection gives landlocked Zambia direct access to international subsea cable capacity, including 2Africa.

• The move reflects a broader strategy to diversify routes and reduce disruption risks.

In a statement released on Saturday, February 21, Bayobab, the infrastructure subsidiary of South African telecom operator MTN, announced the commissioning of a strategic fiber-optic interconnection at the Zambia–Mozambique border. The infrastructure, developed in partnership with Vodacom Moçambique, is designed to improve internet traffic flows across the region.

The new link connects Zambia’s terrestrial networks to international capacity accessible through Mozambique, including subsea cables that connect Southern Africa to major global internet backbones. For Zambia, a landlocked country, the project is aimed at securing international bandwidth access and reducing exposure to traffic disruptions.

“This interconnection is a game-changer for Zambia and the region. By creating a seamless link to the 2Africa cable system, we are positioning Zambia as a regional hub for connectivity and enabling businesses and communities to thrive in the digital economy,” said Lillian Mutwalo, managing director of Bayobab Zambia.

The initiative comes amid recurring disruptions to subsea cables that have affected several African countries in recent years. As data consumption accelerates, African operators are increasingly prioritizing cross-border interconnections to diversify internet routes, strengthen network resilience and reduce international transit costs.

By multiplying access points and developing terrestrial corridors, telecom players are seeking to ensure service continuity for businesses, public institutions and digital platforms.

Adoni Conrad Quenum