Reaching out In Burundi, a US$6 million deal is set see a countrywide roll-out of fibre – and with it, much improved internet services – over the next decade. Under an agreement with Burundi Backbone Systems (a consortium of local network operators), the Tanzania Telecommunications Corporation (TTCL) will extend its fibre connectivity into and throughout the East African nation. As reported by Ventures Africa, it’s a move that will provide landlocked Burundi with access to the SEACOM and EASSy undersea fibre-optic cable systems, providing high-speed internet connectivity and deeper penetration, which is expected to improve business operations between the two countries. The deal is in line with the 2018–2025 Burundi Broadband project, which aims to connect 27 800 km2 via broadband. TTCL has already rolled out fibre connectivity to Zambia, Malawi and Rwanda. In a bid to broaden its business portfolio, TTCL has plans to include additional SADC countries and neighbouring East African nations. 05 November 2019 Image: Gallo/Getty Images