Kenya’s AI Ambitions Face Infrastructure Test as New Subsea Cable Project Takes Shape

Kenya’s AI Ambitions Face Major Internet Test as $2 Billion Subsea Cable Takes Shape
Kenya is taking another major step towards becoming a leading artificial intelligence (AI) hub in Africa, but its ambitions will depend partly on having faster, stronger and more reliable internet connections.
A new $2 billion subsea cable project being developed by Mauritius-based telecommunications company Seacom is expected to strengthen internet connectivity between Africa and Asia, with Mombasa serving as an important landing point.
The project is expected to be completed in 2030 and will provide additional internet capacity to Kenya through a new route across the Indian Ocean.
What Is the Subsea Cable Project?
A subsea cable is a special fibre-optic cable laid beneath the ocean to carry internet data between countries and continents.
These cables are responsible for moving large amounts of information across the world, allowing people to communicate, watch videos, conduct online transactions and access digital services.
The planned Seacom project will create a new connection between Africa and Asia, helping to expand internet capacity in Kenya and the wider East African region.
According to reporting by The Star, the project comes as demand for faster internet continues to increase, particularly because of the growing use of artificial intelligence.
Why Artificial Intelligence Needs Strong Internet
Artificial intelligence refers to computer technology that can perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as answering questions, analysing information, recognising images and generating content.
However, AI services depend on powerful computer systems and the ability to move huge amounts of information quickly.
For example, businesses using AI need reliable internet connections to process information, communicate with computer servers and provide services to customers without delays.
Seacom's Chief Technology Officer, Prenesh Padayachee, explained that the growing demand for AI would require much higher internet speeds and capacity than older subsea cables were designed to provide.
This means countries hoping to benefit from AI technology must invest not only in software but also in the physical infrastructure that makes these services possible.
Why the Project Matters Beyond Kenya
The planned cable could have benefits beyond Kenya by improving digital connectivity across East Africa and creating opportunities for businesses that depend on reliable internet.
Better connectivity could encourage investment in technology companies, financial services, data centres and digital businesses.
It could also help African startups compete internationally by making it easier and potentially cheaper to access advanced digital services.
However, increased internet connectivity also brings concerns about cybersecurity and the protection of sensitive information as more data moves between countries.
For African countries, the project highlights an important reality: building a strong digital economy requires more than ambitious AI policies. It also requires reliable electricity, modern internet infrastructure, investment and effective cybersecurity systems.
As the world increasingly embraces artificial intelligence, Kenya's planned subsea cable could become an important part of preparing East Africa for the next generation of digital technology.