Facebook has announced its plans partnering with a consortium of telecoms businesses to expand Africa’s internet infrastructure.

The social media platform said in a statement announcing it is partnering with six other companies including China Mobile International, Telecom Egypt and Vodafone to construct “2Africa” project.

It will construct a huge 37 000-long undersea cable around the continent that will greatly enhance connectivity both in Africa and the Middle East.

“We’re excited to be collaborating with our 2Africa partners on the most comprehensive subsea cable that will serve the continent,” Facebook executive Najam Ahmad said in a statement. “2Africa is a key pillar supporting this tremendous internet expansion as part of Africa’s surging digital economy.”

It is expected to go online sometime between 2023 and 2024.