A lifeline for Africa’s internet connectivity is a massive ship, the Léon Thévenin, staffed by over 50 experts. This vessel is crucial for maintaining the continent’s online access, especially after recent undersea cable damage caused widespread blackouts.
Last year, internet outages disrupted millions from Lagos to Nairobi, crippling communication and financial transactions. The Léon Thévenin played a pivotal role in repairing these damaged cables, a task it has performed for 13 years.
Shuru Arendse, a cable jointer, emphasizes the ship’s importance: “I keep countries connected. IT professionals have jobs because I maintain the main internet feed.” This sentiment is echoed by the entire crew, who take pride in their vital work.
The internet relies on a global network of fiber optic cables, many of which lie on the ocean floor, connecting Africa to data centers worldwide. These cables, while designed for durability, are often damaged by human activities like anchoring and trawling, or by natural disasters.
When a cable is damaged, the Léon Thévenin is deployed. Using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), the crew locates and repairs the fault, often at depths exceeding 5,000 meters. This process, which can take days, involves cutting, retrieving, and splicing the damaged cable with a new section.
The crew faces numerous challenges, including bureaucratic delays and long periods at sea. They come from diverse backgrounds and nationalities, making personal sacrifices to maintain Africa’s connectivity.
Despite the hardships, the crew shares a strong sense of camaraderie and understands the significance of their work. They see themselves as the vital link between Africa and the global internet.
