Ocean Island to South Africa, With a Future Extension to Singapore, Aiming to Boost the Island's Economic Development and Secure Its Digital

Huguette Bello, president (divers gauche) of the regional council of Réunion, announced on Wednesday, September 2, the launch of the project. The first section of the cable, named ReuNION (Reunion New Indian Ocean Network), will run to Durban, South Africa. Construction is set to begin in 2027, with service expected to start in 2028. The cable will house 16 pairs of optical fibers.

The investment totals €93.1 million, with 79% coming from public funds — mainly from the European Union, including €50 million in aid for outermost regions, plus €6.5 million from the French state and €17 million from regional funds. Private partners include Orange, Free, and the Réunion-based company Zeop, each contributing between €6.1 million and €7.3 million. A key stop on maritime trade routes between Europe and Asia in the 18th century, Réunion now hopes to establish itself as a digital hub on a new Route of the Indies.