Zambia and Mozambique have commissioned a cross‑border fibre‑optic project that will connect the networks of the two neighbouring countries, a development officials say will accelerate digital integration and trade between Lusaka and Maputo.
The Chanida-Cassacatiza cross‑border fibre‑optic interconnector, unveiled by Zambia’s Science and Technology Minister Felix Mutati and Mozambique’s Communications and Digital Transformation Minister Américo Muchanga, connects Zambia’s national fibre backbone to Mozambique’s high‑capacity submarine cable network.
The interconnector is expected to improve redundancy, stabilise internet services and enhance cross‑border data flow for businesses and public institutions.
Mutati said the project means that Zambia is now connected to eight neighbours through fibre infrastructure.
“I may just boast that we have become the most digitally connected country within southern Africa,” he said.
The minister noted that digital infrastructure has become as essential as roads and energy, particularly for delivering social cash transfers, e‑government services and financial inclusion initiatives in rural areas.
Muchanga said the fibre link reflected deepening bilateral cooperation and would expand opportunities for citizens in both countries by improving connectivity, lowering costs and supporting regional trade.
JN/APA