U.S. Sens. Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and John Kennedy (R-LA) have introduced bipartisan legislation intended to promote economic development, national security and improved relations between the U.S. and African nations.
The DiasporaLink Act, if approved, would direct a study into the exploration of the costs and feasibility of developing an undersea fiber-optic cable between the East Coast of the U.S. and the African nations of Nigeria and Ghana. U.S. Rep. Stacey Plaskett (D-VI) also has introduced “companion legislation” in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration would conduct the proposed the study. Undersea cables are described internet highways that run along the ocean floor and connect two continents for greater global communication.
If ultimately constructed, a U.S.–Africa undersea cable would “serve as both a national security instrument and a digital commerce highway to boost America’s global political, economic and military advantages,” according to officials, as well as “represent America’s commitment to countering the proliferation of China’s influence in the global telecommunications space.”
“This bipartisan effort is a crucial first step in strengthening America’s global leadership in the telecommunications space–something that impacts our daily lives in an increasingly digital world–and I am proud to work across the aisle with Senator Kennedy to get it done,” Warnock said. “If constructed, this cable would be an investment in both a physical connection and stronger diplomatic and economic connections between the United States and African nations, and in turn bolster America’s national security by curbing China’s growing influence after years of activity in the region.”
In terms of national security, Kennedy noted the importance of ensuring China doesn’t surpass the U.S. on the global stage.
“Every day, China is laying the groundwork to dominate Africa by controlling internet infrastructure. Beijing is building undersea cables for intelligence transmission, financial transactions, and more. This bipartisan bill would help the U.S. defend American interests and support our friends in Africa against the predations of Communist China,” Kennedy said.
