The Léon Thévenin: A Lifeline for Africa's Internet Connectivity

The Léon Thévenin, a specialized repair ship crewed by over 50 technicians, operates around Africa to fix undersea internet cable disruptions, essential for the continent's connectivity. Amidst storms, human errors, or natural disasters, its swift response helps restore communication for millions across various nations.

The Léon Thévenin, a ship reminiscent of a floating fortress, measures the size of a football field and is home to over 50 engineers and technicians dedicated to preserving internet connectivity throughout Africa. This vessel is particularly vital since last year's internet blackout, which left millions in major cities, from Lagos to Nairobi, scrambling for digital access due to undersea cable failures.

After more than a decade of service, the Léon Thévenin has become synonymous with restoring the vital connections that keep Africa linked to the global digital world. Shuru Arendse, a cable jointer from South Africa, reflects his pride in the role, stating, "Because of me, countries stay connected. I'm a hero because I save communication."

The ship operates in an environment where data travels through a complex network of 600 fibre optic cables that lie deep beneath the ocean, linking vast coastal cities to data centers worldwide. The cables are designed to last for approximately 25 years, but issues frequently arise from human activities, such as careless anchoring or fishing, alongside natural disasters that can disrupt this fragile infrastructure.

Recent disruptions have underscored the ship's importance. In March 2024, damages from multiple undersea cable incidents significantly impacted connectivity across several East and West African nations. The crew aboard the Léon Thévenin quickly mobilizes when notified of hazards beyond local repair teams’ capabilities, with their operations extending to depths of over 5,000 meters.

Crew members utilize advanced technology, including remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), to locate and repair faults. This entails an elaborate process where the ship's ROV, which resembles a miniature bulldozer, is deployed to the ocean floor to identify the damaged sections of the cable. Once found, the impairments are fixed through intricate splicing processes that can take long hours.

The repair mission witnessed by a BBC team off the Ghanaian coast took over a week, but for most internet users, service was seamlessly rerouted during repairs. While local teams handle minor faults, significant breaks prompt urgent calls for the Léon Thévenin, which can swiftly set sail within 24 hours, although paperwork can cause delays.

Cast against a backdrop of personal sacrifice, the crew come from richly diverse backgrounds but share a commitment to their work, spending over six months of the year at sea. Their stories reveal emotional costs, from missing family events to longing for loved ones left behind on land.

Despite the emotional toll, life onboard fosters a strong sense of camaraderie, with crew members forming bonds through shared meals or enjoying leisure time together. The significance of their mission resonates deeply, as they facilitate connections that not only link Africa and the world but also transform lives by enabling access to the digital realm.

As the debate on Africa's internet vulnerability continues, the Léon Thévenin stands as a resilient lifeline, ensuring that even in adversity, communication remains accessible. The crew’s perseverance and the vital role of this ship anchor hope for a well-connected future across the continent.