The new SEACOM cable recently opened up the eastern African coast to high-speed broadband Internet access as noted in last week’s International Word. Overnight the Internet became faster and cheaper. Some businesses that were paying $3,000 per month for satellite Internet are now paying $600 for more reliable and faster service. Not only will businesses prosper, the new cable will affect nearly every aspect of society. People will now be able to socially network or post videos on YouTube. Blogs and microblogging will bring citizen journalism. Literacy will be more valuable not only for work but also for entertainment and socializing. Though much of the continent is still without electricity or the wealth to afford a computer, this is a major step toward development.

The full story at VOA News:
http://www.voanews.com/english/Africa/2009-07-29-voa36.cfm