Chad’s government has ordered major telecom operators Airtel and Moov Africa to connect to the national fibre-optic network within one week.
This audacious initiative will enhance the country’s inadequate telecommunications services and eliminate frequent outages.
On August 27, Telecom Minister Boukar Michel issued an ultimatum to the corporations, warning them of sanctions if they do not comply.
The Communications Infrastructure Modernisation and Improvement Project (PMICE) in Chad involved the deployment of 1,275 km of fibre optic cable to improve network quality and combat excessive internet costs.
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Michel insisted, “Public expectations for better communication have never been higher, and it is unacceptable to continue like this.”
Fibre network boosts telecom quality and cuts costs
The government’s fibre rollout aims to fix widespread connectivity issues that plague Chad’s mobile internet users. Currently, just 60% of the population has access to 4G, and 5G has not yet been launched.
Mobile internet costs remain very high, with prices representing 8.37% of monthly income, far above the International Telecommunication Union’s recommended 2% threshold for affordability. By eliminating wireless and satellite links, connecting telecoms to the fibre backbone could improve internet speed and reliability and cut prices.
The government says telecom network disruptions and poor service quality are unacceptable for residents and businesses.
Chad expands digital links beyond borders
Beyond strengthening internal infrastructure, Chad is developing regional fibre links with Niger to minimise its reliance on Cameroon for internet access. The Trans-Saharan Fibre Optic Backbone project will connect Chad to coastal countries via Niger, improving network resilience and undersea cable access.
Chad has about 100 km of fibre left to install to complete its section of this backbone, slated for completion by the end of the year.
This broader fibre integration will offer Chad improved internet reliability and international connectivity, addressing frequent disruptions caused by outages on current routes.
The government aims to modernise and connect the country while giving telecom operators the infrastructure to compete and serve customers better.