Pakistan Welcomes the Arrival of World’s Largest Submarine Cable

Africa-2 Cable: A New Era for Pakistan’s Connectivity

In a significant development for Pakistan’s internet infrastructure, the world’s largest submarine cable, the Africa-2 Cable Project, has arrived in the country. This groundbreaking project spans 45,000 kilometers and connects 33 countries, offering a transformative boost to connectivity.

State Minister for IT, Shaza Fatima, shared the news during a National Assembly session while addressing concerns about persistent internet issues. She expressed optimism that the cable would enhance Pakistan’s digital landscape, mitigating the frequent disruptions users have faced in recent years.

Doubling Internet Capacity and IT Export Growth

During the session, Shaza Fatima highlighted the strides made in recent years. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has successfully doubled frequency capacity over the last two years. Additionally, IT exports have surged by 33% in the past five months, reflecting the sector’s potential. Internet users in the country have also grown by 25%, underscoring an increasing demand for robust connectivity solutions.

Challenges in Spectrum Allocation

Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Senator Anusha Rehman criticized the lack of strategic spectrum management, emphasizing that better policies could attract substantial investments. Shaza Fatima acknowledged these concerns, noting that PTA has engaged international consultants to devise improved strategies.

Political Instability and IT Export Targets

Senator Zeeshan Khanzada expressed doubts about achieving Pakistan’s ambitious $10 billion IT export target, citing political instability as a significant barrier. Shaza Fatima, however, questioned the credibility of earlier projections, pointing out mismanagement within the Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA).

A Step Toward Digital Advancement

The arrival of the Africa-2 Cable is expected to address connectivity challenges, particularly those caused by aging infrastructure and mobile broadband inefficiencies. This development marks a pivotal moment for Pakistan’s IT sector, paving the way for enhanced global integration.