East Africa has launched one of the region’s first data centre services that support artificial intelligence (AI).

Telecoms giant Safaricom and Kenya-based operator XAfrica Data Centre are collaborating to offer AI-ready data centre services to public and private enterprises in the region, according to Africa Business Communities.

The partnership offers scalable, cost-effective infrastructure solutions, which include data storage, backup and computing.

In addition, they are introducing dedicated enterprise and cloud suites starting at 350 kW and scaling up to more than 1 MW.

The partnership centres on iXAfrica’s NBOX1 Nairobi campus, which has a design capacity of 22.5 MW and serves about 300 million people. Located on key fibre routes, it ensures access to reliable low-carbon power sources, reports ITWeb.

‘By combining our purpose-built, world-class AI-ready infrastructure with Safaricom’s unparalleled market presence and customer relationships, we’re creating a digital ecosystem that will accelerate innovation and growth across the region,’ says Guy Willner, chairman of iXAfrica.

The companies say the project architecture was designed with the needs of high-density processing, such as AI workloads, in mind.

20 May 2025
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