Safaricom and Meta Join Forces

A groundbreaking collaboration took shape in Kenya’s digital landscape this morning, Monday, September 1, 2025, as Meta, the parent company of Facebook, announced its commitment to finance and acquire a stake in Safaricom’s ambitious 4,108-kilometer undersea fibre optic cable project linking Oman to Mombasa, with an estimated cost of approximately Sh3 billion. The revelation, shared at 10:23 AM East Africa Time during a joint press conference at Safaricom House in Nairobi, marks a significant step toward enhancing internet speeds and reducing Kenya’s reliance on third-party infrastructure. The partnership, driven by Meta’s global push into digital infrastructure and Safaricom’s quest for greater bandwidth, has ignited optimism among tech enthusiasts and businesses alike, even as the nation grapples with a Sh10 trillion national debt and 5.5% inflation. "This project will transform connectivity for millions," said Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa, standing alongside Meta’s regional director. The news has sparked a wave of anticipation across the country.

The undersea cable, dubbed the Daraja Fibre Optic Cable, stretches from Oman’s coastal hubs to Mombasa, a key landing point for international internet traffic, aiming to go live by mid-2026. Meta’s financial backing, though the exact stake remains undisclosed, will cover a portion of the Sh3 billion cost, estimated at $23 million, with Safaricom leading as the project proponent. The initiative seeks to bolster Kenya’s digital capacity, addressing the 95% of global internet traffic reliant on undersea cables, and reduce dependence on existing providers like SEACOM and Telkom Kenya, whose agreements with Safaricom are set to expire in 2028. A farmer in Migori, tending his maize field, remarked, "Faster internet could help us sell our crops online."

Public response has been a mix of excitement and curiosity. In Kisumu, a teacher preparing lessons for her students caught the update on her radio and said, "This will make learning easier with better speeds." The project aligns with Meta’s broader strategy to expand its technological footprint beyond social media, including investments in artificial intelligence and internet infrastructure, while Safaricom aims to capitalize on the growing data segment amid competition from satellite providers like Starlink. The cable promises to deliver enhanced reliability and capacity, supporting Kenya’s digital economy, which contributes 10% to GDP. A youth leader in Naivasha, organizing a tech forum, added, "This could put us on the global map." The partnership tests digital advancement.

The morning’s announcement drew diverse reactions. In Thika, a mother preparing breakfast for her children said, "I hope this means cheaper data for my family." In Baringo, a herder tending cattle noted, "Will it reach our remote areas?" The 4,108-kilometer cable will supplement existing systems like TEAMS and EASSy, with Safaricom planning to integrate it into its 14,000-kilometer fibre network, enhancing connectivity for homes and businesses. Meta’s involvement includes technical expertise and potential content delivery optimizations, though details on the stake’s size remain under wraps. A driver in Garissa, fueling his matatu, remarked, "This could improve my business with better online orders." The project reflects strategic growth.

As the day progressed, the story reached remote areas. In Marsabit, a community elder listening to a radio update said, "Our children need this internet boost." In Mombasa’s markets, a fisherman packing nets asked, "Will it create jobs here?" The Sh3 billion investment, a fraction of Safaricom’s recent earnings, underscores the project’s feasibility, with construction slated to begin in early 2026 after environmental approvals. The reduced third-party reliance could save Safaricom millions annually, though it faces rivalry from Starlink’s competitive pricing in Kenya since 2023. A shopkeeper in Homa Bay, preparing for the Devolution Conference, noted, "This could attract more investors." The initiative addresses connectivity gaps.

The morning brought a reflective mood to offices and homes. In Eldoret, a public servant preparing a report said, "Faster internet will speed up our work." In Kisumu, a father checking on his family added, "My kids need this for school." The project builds on Kenya’s history of undersea cables, starting with TEAMS in 2009, and aims to meet rising demand from remote work and streaming, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Meta’s stake could enhance its Africa data strategy, while Safaricom eyes long-term bandwidth control. A community organizer in Turkana, planning a radio talk, remarked, "We need to see the benefits locally." The collaboration challenges implementation.

Experts see a transformative potential. In Nairobi, a telecom analyst discussing over tea said, "This could set a precedent for public-private partnerships." The cable’s capacity, projected at 10 terabits per second, will rival existing systems, though success depends on timely execution and cost management. A vendor in Timau, closing his stall, said, "Let’s hope it doesn’t raise prices." The partnership may also draw scrutiny over data privacy, given Meta’s history, but Safaricom assures local governance. A father in Nyahururu, walking home with his family, added, "This could connect us better." The project marks a digital milestone.

The day saw continued engagement across the country. In Nakuru, a group at a market debated the news. "Will it benefit rural areas?" one trader asked, sorting vegetables. In Nairobi’s cyber cafes, a student scrolling through updates noted, "Social media is abuzz with tech hope." Safaricom and Meta plan a public consultation in October, with construction updates to follow. A youth leader in Kitale, organizing an event, reflected, "This could empower our communities if done right." As the project advances, its impact will shape Kenya’s digital future.