Kenyan telecommunications giant Safaricom has applied to the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) for approval to construct and operate the country’s first subsea fibre optic cable owned by a telco.
If granted, this move would enhance Safaricom’s ability to provide high-speed Internet, reduce reliance on third-party providers, and strengthen network resilience amid increasing competition from satellite internet services like Starlink.
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Why Safaricom is investing in a submarine cable
Safaricom currently depends on subsea cable providers such as SEACOM, the East African Submarine System (EASSy), the East African Marine System (TEAMS), and Telkom Kenya for international bandwidth. However, recent disruptions, including major cable outages in May 2024 that affected EASSy and SEACOM, exposed vulnerabilities in the existing infrastructure. These disruptions forced Safaricom to acquire additional bandwidth from other providers, underscoring the need for independent control over its international connectivity.
Building its own subsea cable would provide Safaricom with a more reliable and cost-effective way to manage its internet traffic, ensuring uninterrupted services for its customers. This strategic investment aligns with the company’s long-term goal of improving connectivity and maintaining its market dominance in Kenya’s fast-evolving digital landscape.
Fierce competition with Starlink
Safaricom’s move comes at a time when competition in Kenya’s internet market is intensifying, particularly with the entry of Starlink in July 2023. Elon Musk’s satellite internet service has rapidly gained traction, offering high-speed connectivity, especially in remote areas underserved by traditional ISPs. By September 2024, Starlink had secured 16,786 subscriptions, capturing 1.1 percent of Kenya’s market share and challenging Safaricom’s dominance.
To counter Starlink’s growth, Safaricom has not only sought regulatory approval for its subsea cable but also revamped its 5G business plans. In December 2024, the telco increased internet speeds for its subscribers, with businesses on 50Mbps now receiving 250Mbps and users on the 10Mbps package upgraded to 50Mbps. These efforts are aimed at retaining existing customers while appealing to new ones with improved service offerings.
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The future of Kenya’s internet infrastructure
If Safaricom’s application is approved, it will mark a significant milestone in Kenya’s telecommunications sector, making it the first operator to own and manage its subsea cable.
This development could pave the way for better network stability, reduced internet costs, and enhanced service delivery. Additionally, Safaricom’s push for regulatory measures to ensure satellite providers like Starlink partner with local mobile operators highlights the ongoing battle for market control.
As Kenya’s internet landscape continues to evolve, Safaricom’s ambitious infrastructure investment signals a commitment to staying ahead of emerging competitors while ensuring seamless connectivity for millions of users across the country.