The implementation of the historic Europe-Africa submarine cable between Morocco and Canary Islands is taking shape. The groundbreaking submarine fiber optic cable project will soon create a vital digital link between Morocco and Spain’s Canary Islands. Moreover, it will position the archipelago as a strategic telecommunications hub in the Atlantic. The initiative, set to begin installation in late 2025, represents a major advancement in connectivity. The project’s implementation is led by Spanish company Isalink in partnership with Canlink. The planned route will start at the port of Arinaga (Gran Canaria), pass through Gran Tarajal (Fuerteventura) and reach the Moroccan coast. With an estimated budget of $57 million, the project has secured $30 million from the European Investment Bank (EIB). The initial phase has already received funds from European funds to conduct studies and design. The construction will span approximately 42 months, with the cable expected to be operational by 2028.
Also read:
The Significance of the Europe-Africa Submarine Cable
The implementation of the Europe-Africa submarine cable between Morocco and Canary Islands is one that cannot be overlooked. The initiative is part of the European Connecting Europe Facility (CEF-Digital program. Its aim is to improve digital cohesion, strengthen cybersecurity, and increase data exchange capacity between continents. From a technical perspective, the submarine cable is a complex structure composed of ultrathin glass fibers covered with insulation layers. Furthermore, it is covered by metal protection, and coatings designed to withstand abyssal pressures, ocean currents, and marine life curiosity.
Each fiber carries modulated light pulses that can support combined traffic of voice, video, financial data, and scientific applications. The cable will expand the Canary Islands’ international connection map, which already includes systems like ACE (Africa Coast to Europe). It also includes WACS (West African Cable System) and 2Africa. This integration strengthens the islands’ position in global telecommunications network. The project also aligns with broader technological initiatives, including the Alisios satellite constellation.
Also read:
Umoja subsea cable: The First Subsea Cable to Directly Connect Africa with Australia
UK Refuses to Back Xlinks’ $33 Billion Morocco-UK Power Project
