Islamabad, Feb 21: The Africa-1 submarine cable project is set to become fully operational by 2026, according to an official statement from Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL). This advanced fiber-optic infrastructure aims to establish seamless connectivity between the UAE, Europe, and Africa through multiple landing stations.
PTCL disclosed this development in a stock exchange filing, highlighting the project’s strategic significance in enhancing global telecommunications.
In November 2020, PTCL’s Board of Directors approved a substantial investment of $59.5 million for the Africa-1 submarine cable initiative. Since 2021, the company has been allocating funds annually as part of its capital expenditure (CAPEX) plan.
As of 2025, around 75% of the total investment has already been utilized, and the remaining costs are expected to be covered within the same year, ensuring the project’s completion within the planned timeframe. 
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The project is slated to achieve its Ready for Service (RFS) milestone in the first quarter of 2026. Once operational, the Africa-1 submarine cable will enable PTCL to generate revenue, significantly contributing to its financial growth and reinforcing its position in the global telecom sector. This state-of-the-art cable system is anticipated to enhance internet speeds, improve data transmission reliability, and support increasing digital demands across regions.
A major milestone in the project will take place on February 22, 2025, with a groundbreaking ceremony marking the cable’s landfall at PTCL’s landing site at Sea View, Karachi. This event signifies a major leap in strengthening Pakistan’s digital infrastructure, paving the way for advanced connectivity and improved international bandwidth capabilities.
The Africa-1 submarine cable project reflects PTCL’s commitment to expanding its global reach and fortifying Pakistan’s role as a key player in the digital economy.
With cutting-edge technology and high-capacity data transfer capabilities, this initiative will not only enhance regional connectivity but also position PTCL as a major contributor to the evolving global telecommunications landscape.
