Broadband fiber optic cable installed in Democratic Republic of Congo

The DRC is actively expanding its fiber optic network with national and regional projects, including over 12,000 km of planned infrastructure to improve connectivity and digital services.

National Fiber Optic Initiatives

The DRC has launched a €66.55 million fiber optic project funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Congolese government. This initiative includes laying 600 kilometers of fiber optic cable to interconnect with Cameroon and the Central African Republic, alongside constructing a state-of-the-art National Data Centre in Brazzaville. The project aims to enhance internet penetration, which was 17.4% in early 2022, and strengthen the country's digital sovereignty by hosting data locally rather than relying on foreign servers .

Regional and Eastern DRC Expansion

In addition to the national backbone, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and Bandwidth and Cloud Services (BCS) are supporting the installation of a 1,200 km fiber optic network in eastern DRC, connecting 319 schools, 70 hospitals, and providing broadband access to 2.5 million people. This project is part of the EU's Global Gateway initiative, aiming to improve digital inclusion and access to high-speed internet in underserved areas .

Broader Regional Connectivity

The DRC is also part of a 10,000 km regional fiber-optic backbone spanning five countries—DRC, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Mozambique. This network targets schools, hospitals, and government institutions, significantly improving connectivity in previously unconnected areas and supporting regional digital integration .

Economic and Social Impacts

Fiber optic deployment in the DRC is expected to have substantial economic benefits. Areas connected to fiber infrastructure show higher employment likelihood, improved service quality, and reduced internet costs. The lack of a comprehensive national backbone has been a major constraint, and these projects aim to address that by providing reliable bandwidth to operators, enterprises, and consumers . Enhanced connectivity will also support education, healthcare, and business development, contributing to the country's digital transformation.

Summary

The DRC is making significant strides in fiber optic infrastructure through national projects, regional backbones, and targeted expansions in underserved areas. These initiatives are designed to increase internet penetration, improve digital services, and foster economic growth, positioning the country as a potential digital hub in Central Africa .