As Gabon prepares to welcome the Medusa Africa submarine cable to its shores by 2028, the country is positioning itself not just as a regional connectivity hub, but as a digital nation determined to shape its own technological destiny.
The ambitious initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of the Digital Economecy, signals a strategic shift toward what officials describe as an inclusive, sovereign, and prosperous digital future.
“Inclusive, because this increased connectivity must benefit everyone—rural schools, health centers, local entrepreneurs—and not just large urban businesses,” said Digital Economy Minister Mark Alexandre Doumba.
At the heart of the government’s vision is the belief that digital infrastructure must serve all citizens. With the Medusa cable expected to significantly increase bandwidth and lower internet costs, authorities are focused on ensuring the benefits reach beyond urban centres to empower underserved communities.
“Sovereign, because control of its data, its networks and its content is becoming a strategic priority, far from external dependencies,” Doumba added, underlining Gabon’s commitment to data independence in an increasingly interconnected and competitive digital landscape.
For the administration, this goes beyond infrastructure—it is about fostering local innovation and resilience. Through programmes such as SIGFiP, Gabon’s integrated public finance management system, and targeted support for startups like POZI, the country is laying the groundwork for a technology-driven economy.
“Bringing prosperity, because affordable and reliable internet is the foundation for innovation, e-commerce, online administration and the creation of skilled jobs,” the minister said, emphasising the broader economic stakes.
As 2028 approaches, the challenge remains: turning vision into reality. With digital transformation now firmly tied to national progress, Gabon is betting on technology not as a luxury, but as a pathway to equitable development—and a future that all Gabonese can access, shape, and share.
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