Mobile fiber optic cables in Democratic Republic of Congo are full

Mobile fiber optic networks in the DRC are currently constrained, with limited backbone infrastructure and high demand leading to network saturation, but expansion projects and satellite initiatives are underway to improve capacity.Current Network SituationThe DRC's digital infrastructure remains underdeveloped, with overall internet penetration below 10% and unique mobile broadband subscriptions around 20%. Only about 40% of the population owns a mobile phone, and coverage outside major cities is limited, with 64% having 3G service and 18% 4G service. High prices and insufficient backbone infrastructure contribute to congestion on mobile fiber networks, particularly in urban areas where demand is concentrated . As of 2023, the DRC had 28.9 million mobile internet subscribers with a penetration rate of 30.4%, while the total number of mobile phone subscribers was 56.1 million, indicating significant pressure on existing fiber and mobile networks .Expansion and Infrastructure ProjectsTo address these limitations, the government and private partners are actively expanding fiber optic infrastructure:SOCOF SA, the Congolese Fiber Optic Company, is deploying fiber along new roads and key transport routes, including a 620 km route between Kinshasa and Muanda, and integrating fiber into mining infrastructure projects funded by Chinese consortiums .The African Development Bank (AfDB) is backing a €66.55 million fiber optic project, including a 600 km cable connecting the DRC with Cameroon and the Central African Republic and a National Data Centre to improve local data management and reduce reliance on foreign servers .The government is also operationalizing a universal service fund to extend connectivity to rural areas, aiming to connect citizens nationwide .Satellite Internet as a ComplementRecognizing that fiber alone cannot meet demand quickly, the DRC has partnered with Monacosat and approved Starlink services to provide high-capacity satellite internet. These initiatives aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly in remote regions, and reduce congestion on terrestrial fiber networks .OutlookWhile mobile fiber optic networks in the DRC are currently under strain due to limited backbone capacity and growing subscriber numbers, ongoing fiber deployments, satellite internet projects, and government-led digital strategies are expected to gradually alleviate congestion, improve broadband coverage, and enhance network reliability across the country .