The Digicel Group has activated its state-of-the-art subsea fibre cable, Deep Blue One, which will now see offshore oil and gas rigs being provided with adequate digital connectivity.
This move it said will foster collaboration among key stakeholders in the oil and gas industry and underscores Digicel’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure that catalyzes economic growth and technological advancement.
Its investment in the subsea cable and international submarine capacity is set to significantly improve connectivity across the Caribbean and South America, particularly benefiting Guyana, French Guiana, Suriname, and Trinidad & Tobago.
The Deep Blue One network will provide seamless connectivity to the countries it serves, ensuring uninterrupted communication and real-time data transmission.
Cyril Francis, Chief Technical Officer of Digicel Guyana, emphasized the cable’s impact on Guyana’s digital landscape. “In Guyana, Deep Blue One will enhance Guyana’s digital integration with the rest of the world and will foster the growth of e-services by offering businesses and consumers more choices that better serves their needs.
“Deep Blue One is well positioned to support Guyana’s burgeoning oil and gas sector with features that enable offshore connectivity to FPSOs and other platforms. At this juncture of rapid economic development, the launch of Deep Blue One is critical for the acceleration of Guyana’s transition to a digital economy,” he said.
Marcelo Cataldo, Chief Executive Officer of Digicel Group, highlighted the transformative potential of the new subsea cable. “Subsea fibre has long been the backbone of global connectivity, and Deep Blue One is set to serve as a catalyst for the next wave of economic development in the region,” he noted.
He added, “At Digicel, our focus has always been on keeping our customers connected to the people and things that matter most; driving economic development in the countries we serve is a key part of that. This is an exciting milestone for us, and we are committed to unlocking new opportunities for growth and innovation across the region.”
The implementation of Deep Blue One promises to enhance operational efficiency and ensure minimal downtime, thanks to its redundant pathways and cutting-edge technology. This subsea cable network is designed to accommodate future growth and evolving technological requirements, offering scalability and flexibility to meet industry demands. Moreover, in alignment with Digicel’s commitment to environmental sustainability, the construction of Deep Blue One prioritized sustainable practices, contributing to the transition towards a greener future.
The activation of Deep Blue One comes at a pivotal moment for the region, where enhanced connectivity can drive substantial economic benefits. According to the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), a 10% increase in fixed broadband penetration can result in up to a 2.3% increase in GDP per capita, while a 10% increase in mobile broadband penetration can yield up to a 2.8% increase in GDP per capita. These statistics underscore the critical role that advanced digital infrastructure plays in economic development.
Deep Blue One’s capabilities extend beyond mere connectivity. By ensuring reliable and efficient data transmission, the cable will support a wide array of applications, from business operations and digital services to educational platforms and healthcare systems. This robust infrastructure is expected to attract investments, spur innovation, and create job opportunities, thereby contributing to the socio-economic upliftment of the region.
In Suriname and French Guiana, Deep Blue One will pave the way for enhanced digital services and improved connectivity, aiding in the development of smart cities and digital economies. The subsea cable’s ability to deliver high-speed, low-latency connectivity will be instrumental in supporting the digital transformation initiatives of these nations.
For Trinidad & Tobago, the benefits are multifaceted. Enhanced connectivity will not only improve local businesses’ competitiveness but also provide a platform for startups and tech companies to thrive.
The subsea cable will also facilitate better integration with global markets, enabling the country to leverage new economic opportunities and drive sustained growth.
