The Tunisia Telecom and Medusa Submarine Cable System has officially become part of the Medusa submarine cable network, representing a pivotal advancement in enhancing the nation’s digital infrastructure.
This strategic integration will provide Tunisia Telecom and Medusa Submarine Cable System with a dedicated fiber optical connection linking Bizerte and Marseille, thereby improving connectivity and elevating digital services.
The partnership is anticipated to significantly influence Tunisia’s digital landscape, bolstering its role in the global digital economy.
Medusa Submarine Cable Network: A Transformative Initiative
The Medusa submarine cable network is an extensive 8,700 km undersea cable system poised to transform digital connectivity throughout the Mediterranean region.
Featuring 17 landing points across Algeria, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Greece, Italy, Libya, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, and Tunisia, this sophisticated network aims to deliver high-speed, dependable, and secure communication links.
Its anticipated launch in early 2026 is expected to greatly enhance cross-border data transfer and digital operations.
A Specialized Fiber Optic Connection
The agreement between Tunisia Telecom and Medusa Submarine cable System system encompasses the provision and management of a specialized fiber optical link between Bizerte in Northern Tunisia and Marseille, France.
With a remarkable capacity of 20Tbps, this connection will facilitate faster internet speeds, improved connectivity, and heightened digital security.
Enhancing Tunisia’s Digital Landscape
Lassâad Ben Dhiab, CEO of Tunisie Telecom, expressed his pride in joining this trans-Mediterranean digital initiative.
He emphasized the significance of merging Tunisia Telecom Medusa Submarine Cable’s fiber optical infrastructure with the Medusa system to offer more innovative and secure solutions.
This collaboration is set to play a vital role in fulfilling customer needs while promoting the development of Tunisia’s digital ecosystem.
Digital Sovereignty and Global Standing
Communications Minister Sofiene Hemissi highlighted that this initiative aims to strengthen Tunisia’s digital sovereignty.
Additionally, it is anticipated to elevate Tunisia’s position within both regional and international digital arenas.
Improved connectivity and secure communication networks will establish Tunisia as a significant contributor to the global digital economy.
Advancement of Tunisia’s Digital Ecosystem
Tunisia has been diligently pursuing the enhancement of its digital infrastructure.
Just weeks prior to the announcement of the Tunisia Telecom and Medusa Submarine Cable-Medusa partnership, the Tunisian government initiated nationwide 5G internet services.
This initiative is in line with the country’s strategic vision of becoming a frontrunner in digital transformation.
Medusa’s Infrastructure and Landing Points
Medusa refers to both the cable itself and the infrastructure provider responsible for its establishment.
Based in Dublin, Ireland, the Medusa project aims to improve connectivity between Europe and North Africa.
With several landing points throughout the Mediterranean, Medusa is positioned to revolutionize digital communications for both businesses and governmental entities.
Key Landing Partners
Tunisia: In 2023, Orange Tunisie was designated as the landing partner and owner of the Medusa cable’s branch in Tunisia, with the cable making landfall at its facility in Bizerte.
Morocco: Orange will also supply the landing infrastructure for the Medusa cable in Morocco.
Spain: The cable will connect at the AFR-IX Barcelona cable landing station as well as the upcoming Port of Alicante landing station.
Egypt: Telecom Egypt will manage Medusa’s landing at Port Said and link it to the Red Sea landing stations in Suez, Zafarana, and Ras Ghareb via its terrestrial network.
Libya: The landing operations in Tripoli and Benghazi will be overseen by Libya’s state-owned LUIC.
Tunisia’s Existing Submarine Cable Infrastructure
Tunisia has long been a key player in undersea connectivity.
The nation already accommodates landing points for several prominent submarine cable systems, including:
Peace Submarine Cable
SeaMeWe-4
Didon Submarine Cable
Hannibal Submarine Cable
The inclusion of Medusa will further solidify Tunisia’s position as a central hub for digital connectivity within the Mediterranean region.
The Advancement of Digital Connectivity in Tunisia
The partnership between Tunisia Telecom and Medusa Submarine Cable and Medusa is poised to deliver significant economic and technological advantages to the country.
The establishment of a high-capacity fiber optical connection will enhance the capabilities of businesses, educational institutions, and government entities by offering expedited and secure digital services.
Through its involvement in the Medusa initiative, Tunisia is fortifying its international digital connections.
This collaboration will enable efficient communication with both European and African countries, fostering cross-border partnerships and stimulating economic development.
As connectivity improves, the necessity for strong cybersecurity measures becomes paramount.
The dedicated fiber optic link connecting Bizerte and Marseille will integrate sophisticated security protocols, ensuring the safety and continuity of data transmission.
Expert Editorial Comment
The formal alliance between Tunisia Telecom and Medusa submarine cable system represents a significant achievement in Tunisia’s digital evolution.
By establishing a dedicated fiber optic link between Bizerte and Marseille, Tunisia Telecom and Medusa Submarine Cable are positioned to enhance connectivity, promote innovation, and bolster the nation’s standing in the global digital landscape.
With the anticipated launch of the Medusa cable in early 2026, Tunisia is set to enter a new phase of digital connectivity, establishing itself as a pivotal player in the Mediterranean telecommunications arena.
