Safaricom PLC has partnered with iXAfrica Data Centres, Kenya’s leading hyperscale-ready data centre operator, to introduce East Africa’s first AI-ready data centre services, tailored for enterprise and cloud solutions.
This collaboration equips businesses and government clients with scalable, cost-effective solutions for data storage, backup, and high-performance computing, ideal for AI-driven workloads, cloud and edge computing, data analytics, disaster recovery, and flexible bandwidth needs. The infrastructure supports Kenya’s ambition to become a key player in the global AI landscape.
“This partnership strengthens Safaricom’s enterprise offerings with cutting-edge data centreservices, aligning with our vision to be Africa’s leading purpose-led technology company by 2030,” said Dr Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom. “As East Africa’s digital economy grows, we’re delivering secure, scalable infrastructure to drive innovation, including AI, while promoting sustainable growth.”
The joint venture features a unified go-to-market approach, offering enterprise and cloud suites starting at 350kW, scalable to over 1MW, with integrated connectivity solutions. The infrastructure is optimized for high-density computing, advanced cooling, and resilience required for modern AI applications.
Guy Willner, Chairman of iXAfrica, stated, “By merging our world-class AI-ready infrastructure with Safaricom’s market leadership, we’re building a digital ecosystem to accelerate regional innovation and growth.”
Enterprises can now host advanced AI workloads locally, ensuring data sovereignty, compliance, and low-latency performance. The comprehensive solution includes colocation (2U+), connectivity, cloud services, cybersecurity, and managed services, all under a single Safaricom contract.
Located at iXAfrica’s NBOX1 Nairobi Campus, the facility boasts a 22.5MW design capacity, making it the largest data centre in Greater East Africa. Strategically positioned along major fiber routes and powered by resilient, low-carbon energy, it serves a regional population exceeding 300 million.
For financial institutions, the infrastructure enables AI-driven fraud prevention, credit risk analysis, and personalized services while meeting compliance standards. In manufacturing and retail, it supports supply chain optimization, IoT analytics, and demand forecasting with secure, local processing.
With Safaricom’s 49 million subscribers and leadership in mobile, fintech, and enterprise connectivity, this partnership leverages Kenya’s strategic location and renewable energy grid—powering over 90% of the country’s electricity—to position East Africa as a rising technology hub.