In the ever-evolving world of Africa’s telecommunications sector, the story of the Google Equiano submarine cable landing in Togo stands out as a testament to the power of patient investment, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and long-term vision. This groundbreaking infrastructure project, which has the potential to reshape digital connectivity across West Africa, was not the result of a single visionary or a quick win. Instead, it reflects a deeper, more organic process that rewards those who think beyond short-term gains.
From Togo to a Transformative Digital Future
In October 2022, Lanre Kolade, CEO of Koltronics Nigeria and chairman of ConnectedCompute, embarked on what was intended to be a routine weekend trip to Togo. What followed was the beginning of a journey that would culminate in one of the region’s most significant digital infrastructure projects: securing a landing for Google’s Equiano submarine cable in Togo— a country initially not even considered in the cable’s plans.
Reflecting on the two-year process that made this project a reality, Kolade recalled how the project grew from an idea into a tangible success through the orchestration of multiple stakeholders, including government bodies, development organizations, and private corporations. “We practically midwifed the opportunity from zero to delivery,” Kolade said, emphasizing that the project’s success wasn’t driven by market dominance but by a concerted effort to create long-term developmental benefits.
Building the Future: The Need for Patience and Capital
The Togo cable landing illustrates a broader trend in African telecommunications. The sector is unique in that it often resists the quick wins seen in other industries, instead rewarding those who approach challenges with a long-term mindset. Kolade is quick to point out the importance of ‘patient capital’ in such ventures, noting that these types of infrastructure projects require investment that understands the developmental nature of the work.
“Commercial money alone wouldn’t suffice,” Kolade explained. “For that kind of project, the money must be patient. You need capital that understands what we’re trying to do is developmental.” This long-term thinking was key to the Togo project, which involved not just financial backing but also careful coordination among diverse stakeholders, from governments to private companies.
The Ecosystem Approach: Creating Organic Growth
Kolade’s insights reflect a broader principle that is at the heart of Africa’s telecommunications revolution: organic growth. Rather than attempting to force predetermined outcomes, the key to success in this sector lies in cultivating conditions for natural, sustainable development. The Togo project serves as a perfect example of this principle. What began as casual conversations evolved into a transformative project that benefitted not only Togo but also neighboring countries, creating positive network effects across the region.
“Infrastructure isn’t just about commercial returns,” Kolade pointed out. “It’s about capillarity, how the network serves not just one country, but multiple countries, benefiting the entire region.” This focus on ecosystem-wide benefits ensures that the growth is not zero-sum, but rather creates a win-win scenario for all involved.
Resisting Short-Term Thinking: Lessons from the Telco Sector
Kolade’s approach also stands in stark contrast to the “winner-takes-all” mindset often found in other areas of technology, such as fintech or blockchain. In these sectors, rapid product iterations and aggressive user acquisition strategies can sometimes overshadow the more systemic issues at play. Telecommunications, on the other hand, with its heavy reliance on physical infrastructure, enforces a more thoughtful, patient approach to growth.
Drawing a parallel between telecom projects and the forest elephants of the Congo Basin, Kolade described how such infrastructure can only succeed by working with, rather than against, the natural dynamics of the ecosystem. “The real dividends of connectivity come not from dominating markets or chasing quick returns, but from embedding oneself into the people and ecosystems one seeks to serve,” Kolade noted.
Legacy of Patience and Purpose
As Africa continues its digital transformation, other sectors would do well to learn from the telecommunications industry. The lessons of patient capital, stakeholder orchestration, and organic growth are invaluable for any organization looking to create long-lasting impact in the region. “You cannot correct an inaction,” Kolade wisely stated, urging others to take action with a long-term view and focus on relationships and infrastructure that benefit the entire ecosystem.
In conclusion, the success of the Equiano submarine cable landing in Togo demonstrates how the power of patient, collaborative investment can reshape entire regions. The key takeaway: true transformation in Africa’s telecom sector, and beyond, emerges not from quick disruptions, but from thoughtful, long-term collaboration that benefits the broader ecosystem.
