Internet

Johannesburg becomes Africa's first Azure ExpressRoute Metro hub

Cassava boosts Africa cloud connectivity through Azure ExpressRoute Metro

Cassava Technologies has strengthened Africa's cloud infrastructure by expanding cloud resilience capabilities through a new Microsoft Azure ExpressRoute Metro peering location in Johannesburg

The milestone, delivered through its businesses Africa Data Centres and Liquid C2, enhances secure, high-performance cloud connectivity for enterprises across the continent.

Africa Data Centres has been designated a Microsoft Azure ExpressRoute Metro peering location, making Johannesburg the first metro area in Africa to support the service. The development reinforces Cassava Technologies' position in advancing the continent's digital infrastructure while enabling organisations to access more resilient and secure cloud services.

Leveraging its on-net presence across both ExpressRoute Metro locations in Johannesburg, Liquid C2, Cassava Technologies' cloud and cyber security business, will provide Secure CloudConnect, a fully managed solution that combines resilient private cloud connectivity with integrated cyber security capabilities. The service is designed to provide customers with a secure and reliable connection to Microsoft Azure.

"Being designated a Microsoft Azure ExpressRoute Metro peering location is a defining moment for Africa Data Centres as well as for Africa's digital infrastructure. It reflects growing confidence in the continent's ability to support the next generation of cloud and AI-driven services while demonstrating the strength of our One Cassava model. By combining the infrastructure capabilities of Africa Data Centres with the cloud and cyber security expertise of Liquid C2, we are providing organisations with the resilient, secure, and trusted digital foundation they need to accelerate innovation and growth," said Ziaad Suleman, senior vice- president of Cassava Technologies South Africa and Botswana.

As Africa's first ExpressRoute Metro deployment, Johannesburg now joins a select group of global technology hubs offering enhanced cloud resilience through dual peering locations. Africa Data Centres' JHB1 facility serves as the second peering location within the Johannesburg metropolitan area, enabling ExpressRoute Metro to route a single connection through two separate sites to provide built-in redundancy for business-critical applications.

The expansion comes as organisations face increasing regulatory requirements around operational resilience, business continuity, risk management and data protection.

To address these needs, Liquid C2's Secure CloudConnect enables organisations to strengthen cyber security, minimise the risk of service disruption and simplify the management of increasingly complex cloud environments, while supporting compliance with governance and regulatory expectations. The managed service also allows customers to work with a single provider while accessing infrastructure built to support mission-critical operations.

"South Africa isn’t waiting for the AI era - it’s helping to shape it, and that ambition rests on digital infrastructure the country can trust. With Microsoft Azure ExpressRoute Metro now available in Johannesburg, organisations across South Africa gain a more resilient and secure path to the cloud for their most critical workloads," said Vukani Mngxati, CEO of Microsoft South Africa.

"When businesses can build on trusted, resilient foundations, they can move faster, compete on the global stage, and turn South Africa’s digital ambition into real economic impact. We are proud to work with Cassava Technologies to help make that happen."

The new ExpressRoute Metro capability represents another step in strengthening Africa's enterprise digital ecosystem by combining hyperscale digital infrastructure with managed cloud security services. Through the integration of Africa Data Centres' infrastructure and Liquid C2's cloud expertise, Cassava Technologies is helping businesses across the continent improve resilience, accelerate digital transformation and support the growing adoption of cloud and AI-enabled applications.

Liberia advances university connectivity with Tubman internet upgrade

Liberia expands digital access in higher education

The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) has unveiled plans to strengthen internet connectivity at William V. S. Tubman University, a move aimed at supporting digital learning and expanding access to technology in higher education

The announcement was made by LTA chairperson Clarence K. Massaquoi during the Authority's Cybersecurity Marathon held in Harper, Maryland County, on 7 July under the theme, "Secure Your Digital Future."

The planned upgrade forms part of the government's broader digital transformation programme led by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. and is intended to provide the university with enhanced internet services to improve teaching, research, innovation and administrative operations.

Chairperson Massaquoi said expanding digital infrastructure across higher education institutions is critical to preparing students for an increasingly technology-driven future.

"Improving internet access at our institutions of higher learning is essential to preparing the next generation for the digital economy. This initiative reflects our commitment to ensuring that students and educators have the connectivity needed to succeed in today's technology-driven world."

He added that the initiative was announced following an appeal from former Chief Justice Gloria Musu Scott, highlighting the growing need for dependable digital infrastructure to support quality education.

Tubman University president Dr Olu Q. Menjay welcomed the initiative, saying improved connectivity would significantly strengthen the institution's digital capabilities and academic environment.

"This support will significantly enhance our teaching and learning environment while helping us address longstanding connectivity challenges. It will also expand opportunities for research, innovation, and digital education across our campus."

The planned investment is part of the LTA's ongoing efforts to reduce the digital divide by extending reliable internet access to educational institutions, enabling greater digital inclusion while supporting Liberia's long-term vision of a connected, technology-enabled society.

Powertel, Paratus activate Zimbabwe regional fibre corridor

Zimbabwe launches high-capacity cross-border fibre corridor with Paratus. (Image source: Paratus)

Powertel Communications and Paratus Zimbabwe have activated the first operational segment of their cross-border fibre infrastructure project, marking a significant step towards establishing a high-capacity digital corridor linking Zimbabwe with Botswana, Zambia, South Africa and the wider Paratus network across Southern Africa

The live section, stretching between Plumtree and Bulawayo, represents the first phase of a broader initiative launched under the public-private partnership (PPP) signed by the two companies in June 2025. The agreement combines Powertel's nationwide fibre backbone with Paratus' regional network, technical expertise and infrastructure development experience to expand long-distance connectivity across Zimbabwe.

As the first Paratus-connected fibre route into Zimbabwe, the newly commissioned link enhances regional interconnection while strengthening cross-border communications. The project is designed to improve digital inclusion, increase network resilience and support long-term economic development by integrating Zimbabwe into the wider Southern African telecommunications ecosystem.

Built using advanced Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) technology, the route is capable of supporting more than 10Tbps of capacity. It is currently operational with an equipped capacity of 800Gbps, providing immediate bandwidth while allowing for future expansion as demand increases. The second phase, extending from Bulawayo to Livingstone, is scheduled to go live in September 2026, completing the strategic three-country corridor.

Managing Director of Powertel Communications, Willard Nyagwande says the achievement demonstrates the impact of strong collaboration in delivering national and regional connectivity goals.

"This is a defining moment for Powertel as the project is planned, built, owned and operated by Powertel, as the licensed national carrier under POTRAZ and the telecommunications arm of ZESA. The IRU with our partner Paratus is the commercial vehicle that this project's success rides on; that allows us to lead this corridor with the financial backing of a renowned and reputable continental partner, whilst retaining the operational primacy over the asset, the regulator-facing relationship, and accountability to ZESA and the people of Zimbabwe. This IRU converts a national infrastructure ambition into a bankable, investable, replicable commercial reality. It aligns the incentives of both parties over the full economic life of the asset. That is precisely why this model is significant. It is the structure that has made the Plumtree–Victoria Falls corridor financeable today, and it is the same structure that will carry the Bulawayo–Livingstone, and the wider Botswana–Zimbabwe–Zambia digital spine, tomorrow!"

Chief Commercial Officer of Paratus Group, Martin Cox says the first live deployment delivers on the vision announced when the partnership was formed."When we announced the PPP and this project last year, we set out a clear vision to create the first high-capacity digital corridor linking Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia. Today, we are delighted that the first phase is live, carrying traffic and already delivering real, measurable progress towards that vision.

This is about far more than fiber infrastructure. It is about building the digital foundations that enable economic growth, regional integration and improved access to world-class connectivity. By integrating Zimbabwe into the Paratus network – Africa's quality network – we are extending the reach of our contiguous network from South Africa through Botswana and Zimbabwe into Zambia, creating resilient connectivity for businesses, service providers and communities across the region.

This is just the first of many routes that Paratus plans to develop as we continue expanding Africa's quality network."

Speaking during the launch, Head of Cluster: Energy and Trading, Tinashe Yafele, described the completion of the first phase as an important milestone in Zimbabwe's digital transformation programme.

"With an equipped capacity of 800Gbps, this project stands as a significant landmark in Zimbabwe's digital transformation journey. This project is more than the just the deployment of fiber optic infrastructure. It represents a strategic investment in Zimbabwe's digital economy, regional integration and long-term economic development. The project directly supports the aspirations of Vision 2030, the National Development Strategy and Zimbabwe's Digital Economy Strategy by strengthening the digital infrastructure required for modern commerce, education, healthcare, e-government, financial services and industrial development. It also positions Zimbabwe as a strategic regional telecommunications gateway connecting Southern Africa."

He further encouraged both companies to maintain momentum on the remaining phases of the project.

"Your unified focus remains a powerful testament that sets the pace for shared vision and operational excellence."

Construction of the next phase, which will extend the network from Bulawayo to Livingstone, is progressing and is expected to be completed during the next quarter. Once operational, the expanded corridor will provide additional network resilience, improve regional connectivity and create new opportunities for trade, innovation and digital participation across Southern Africa.

The companies say the project also demonstrates how the long-term IRU model can support investment in strategic telecommunications infrastructure, creating a scalable framework for future cross-border digital connectivity across the region.

Vodacom secures 55% Safaricom ownership stake

Vodacom completes acquisition of 55% Safaricom stake

Vodacom Group has finalised the acquisition of an additional 20% effective stake in Safaricom PLC, increasing its shareholding to approximately 55% and securing majority ownership of the telecommunications, financial services and technology company

The transaction was completed after the Court of Appeal of Kenya stayed a conservatory order on 26 June 2026 and all remaining conditions precedent were satisfied.

Originally announced in December 2025, the transaction is valued at US$2.1bn (R35bn). Under the agreement, Vodacom acquired a 15% stake from the Government of Kenya and an effective additional 5% stake from Vodafone Group Plc at KES34 per share.

Following the completion of the transaction, the Government of Kenya retains a 20% shareholding in Safaricom, which continues to be listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange.

As a result of the increased ownership, Safaricom's financial results will be consolidated into Vodacom's financial statements under IFRS rather than being reported as an associate. Vodacom reported EBITDA of R63bn for FY26, while Safaricom reported EBITDA of R29bn.

Majority ownership supports Vision 2030 strategy

Shameel Joosub, Vodacom Group CEO, said, "This is a landmark moment for Vodacom, for Safaricom, and for the communities we serve across East Africa. Acquiring majority ownership in Safaricom strengthens our position as a market leader, while at the same time unlocking new opportunities to drive digital and financial inclusion at scale in Kenya and Ethiopia. Safaricom's outstanding track record and differentiated growth outlook perfectly complement our Vision 2030 ambitions, empowering us to deliver sustainable value for all stakeholders and to connect millions more people for a better future. I look forward to partnering with Governments in Kenya and Ethiopia and working even closer with the Safaricom team, leveraging the learnings from their success across the Group."

Safaricom is recognised as one of Africa's leading companies, with operations spanning telecommunications, financial technology, technology services and social impact initiatives. Its M-Pesa platform continues to play a significant role in advancing financial inclusion, with fintech contributing 44% of revenue in Kenya.

The company has also expanded into Ethiopia, where it has built a customer base of approximately 14 million, while continuing to grow its cloud, Internet of Things (IoT) and enterprise service offerings.

Transaction strengthens Vodacom's East African footprint

According to Vodacom, the acquisition represents an important milestone in its Vision 2030 strategy, which focuses on strengthening its leadership across Africa's high-growth markets while expanding its portfolio of digital and financial services.

With the transaction complete, Vodacom's operations now extend across a connected footprint stretching from South Africa through East and Central Africa to Egypt, with Safaricom serving as the centre of its East African business.

FCPA John Mbadi, E.G.H., cabinet secretary, National Treasury of Kenya, said, "Twenty-five years ago, the Government of Kenya made a founding investment in a mobile telephone licence. That investment has grown into Safaricom - a company that has transformed financial inclusion across Africa, connected more than fifty million Kenyans, and contributed over one-and-a-half trillion shillings to the Exchequer. Today, we crystallise a portion of that extraordinary value to invest in the roads, the energy systems, the water infrastructure, and the airports that will power Kenya's next chapter of growth. We do so lawfully, transparently, and with the express authority of Parliament. Safaricom's best days are not behind it. They are ahead of it. And Kenya remains its home."

Vodacom intends to update the market on its medium-term targets on or around 27 July 2026, when the Group publishes its first quarter results.

Africa’s 5G momentum accelerates

Ericsson maps Africa’s digital future. (Image source: Ericsson)

Global 5G mobile subscriptions surpassed three billion during the first quarter of 2026, with Sub-Saharan Africa witnessing rapid progress in its shift from legacy networks to advanced connectivity

According to the June 2026 edition of the Ericsson Mobility Report, the region is expected to record the fastest 5G subscription growth globally, increasing from around 30 million in 2025 to approximately 370 million by 2031.

Total mobile subscriptions in sub-Saharan Africa are forecast to reach 1.31 billion by 2031, rising from 1.05 billion in 2025. During this period, 2G and 3G networks are projected to decline significantly as 4G and 5G become the dominant technologies. LTE (4G) subscriptions are expected to increase from 490 million in 2025 to 610 million by 2031, representing 46% of total subscriptions. Meanwhile, 5G is forecast to account for 28% of mobile subscriptions by the end of 2031.

Mobile data usage across the region is also expanding rapidly. Average monthly mobile data consumption per active smartphone is projected to rise from 5.3 GB in 2025 to 12 GB in 2031. Total mobile data traffic is expected to increase from 2.8 EB per month in 2025 to 9.7 EB per month by 2031.

Majda Lahlou Kassi, vice-president and head of Ericsson West and Southern Africa, commented, “The acceleration of 4G and 5G is a defining opportunity for Africa to leapfrog into the AI era. By transitioning away from legacy networks, we are building the foundation for a vibrant, inclusive digital economy. With the right collaborative investments in spectrum and policy frameworks, Africa is positioned to fully participate in, and benefit from, the AI boom.”

Alain Maupin, vice-president and head of Ericsson East and North Africa at Ericsson Europe, Middle East and Africa, added, “As digital transformation scales across the continent, the rise of AI and uplink-heavy applications, such as XR and autonomous devices, will fundamentally change traffic patterns. We are committed to delivering the high-performing, programmable networks needed to meet these new demands and support Africa's innovators and enterprises.”

Beyond mobile connectivity, service providers across sub-Saharan Africa are increasingly expanding their offerings. Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) is becoming a key priority for connecting consumers and enterprises, offering significant long-term potential to address the region’s growing need for reliable broadband access.

Reflecting global trends highlighted in the June 2026 Ericsson Mobility Report, uplink traffic is growing faster than downlink traffic among many service providers. Current drivers include smartphone communication and collaboration applications, user-generated content sharing and cloud storage, reflecting changing network requirements across Africa. The report also highlights the growing industry focus on 6G standardisation.

The June 2026 Ericsson Mobility Report also includes insights into differentiated connectivity services offered by global providers, increasing uplink demand in AI-powered mobile networks, and the role of mobile connectivity in AI-driven enterprise transformation. Additional articles explore AI-enabled XR evolution with Qualcomm and network slicing advancements with SoftBank during the 2026 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix.

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