A Landmark Achievement for Global Connectivity
In a groundbreaking development for international telecommunications, stc has successfully landed the 2Africa Pearls submarine cable system in Bahrain. This project represents a monumental investment of US$ 205 million, marking a significant milestone in global connectivity. Notably, the 2Africa cable system is recognized as the world's longest submarine cable, stretching across 45,000 kilometers. The successful landing of this cable, which occurred on June 4, next to the Seef District, was attended by dignitaries such as H.E. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, and Eng. Khalid Al Osaimi, Chief Executive Officer of stc Bahrain.
The implications of this achievement extend far beyond the mere physical presence of the cable. It serves to enhance Bahrain's status as a prominent ICT hub, thereby accelerating digital transformation across connected countries. This influx of connectivity is expected to attract significant international investments, create job opportunities, and foster innovation across multiple sectors. As H.E. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah highlighted, this endeavor aligns perfectly with the aspirations of Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, which seeks to bolster the Kingdom's position on both regional and global stages.
Empowering a Digital Economy
Eng. Khalid Al Osaimi expressed enthusiasm regarding the landing of the 2Africa Pearls submarine cable, noting that it will increase Bahrain's connectivity capacity tenfold, with the potential for future scalability. This expansion is crucial for cementing Bahrain’s role as a leading communications and digital hub in the region. The cable, designed with a remarkable capacity of 180 terabits per second, will enable faster adoption of new technologies and digital solutions. This is particularly relevant in today’s data-driven world, where applications such as content streaming, cloud computing, and gaming demand high-speed internet connectivity.
Furthermore, the benefits of the 2Africa Pearls submarine cable extend to both businesses and consumers. For enterprises, the increased connectivity offers improved communication, greater access to global markets, and enhanced operational efficiency. On the consumer front, this transformative project promises reliable internet services and a richer digital experience. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the 2Africa Pearls submarine cable will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for innovation, paving the way for emerging technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT).
The successful landing of the 2Africa Pearls submarine cable in Bahrain is not merely an infrastructural achievement; it is a transformative leap toward a digitally empowered economy. Through strategic investments and partnerships, Bahrain is poised to enhance its global connectivity, fostering innovation and growth across various sectors. As we look towards the future, the implications of this monumental project will resonate not only within the Kingdom but also across the broader region, solidifying Bahrain's role as a key player in the global digital landscape.
