Safaricom, Africa Data Centres launch East Africa’s first AI-ready facility in Nairobi to power cloud, AI, and digital innovation.
In a major boost to Africa’s digital future, Safaricom and Africa Data Centres have launched East Africa’s first AI-ready data center, setting a new standard for cloud and digital innovation on the continent.
Unveiled on May 14, 2025, at Karen Technology Park, Nairobi, the facility is designed to support next-generation technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, cloud computing, and enterprise digital services.
“This is more than a data center. It’s a nerve center for Africa’s digital future,”
said Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom.
Backed by a $150 million co-investment from Safaricom and Africa Data Centres, the project marks a long-term commitment to scalable infrastructure across East Africa.
The first phase spans 10,000 square meters, with an IT load capacity of 20MW, placing it among Sub-Saharan Africa’s top Tier III facilities.
It includes:
“This is the first facility in East Africa engineered specifically for AI workloads,”
said Hardy Pemhiwa, Group CEO, Cassava Technologies.
Africa’s digital economy is projected to contribute $180 billion to GDP by 2025, according to the International Finance Corporation (IFC). Kenya, already a leader in mobile innovation thanks to M-Pesa, is well-positioned to lead the next wave of AI-powered services.
“We are seeing strong demand across sectors—agriculture, logistics, healthcare—for AI-driven solutions,”
said Michael Michie, CTO, Africa Data Centres Kenya.
This launch strengthens Safaricom’s shift from telecom to tech leader. In 2024, its enterprise division earned KSh47.8 billion ($368 million)—a 19% increase—driven by cloud and digital services.
The data center also supports Kenya’s Digital Superhighway, part of President Ruto’s plan to digitize 80% of public services and train 1 million youth in digital skills by 2027.
“This project lays the tracks for a more intelligent and inclusive economy,”
said Eliud Owalo, Cabinet Secretary, ICT & Digital Economy.
The facility is expected to trigger growth across Rwanda, Uganda, and Tanzania, where governments are considering satellite data hubs linked to Nairobi.
“What Nairobi is doing today, Kigali and Kampala will do tomorrow,”
said Dr. Bitange Ndemo, AU Digital Economy Advisor.
Africa Data Centres aims to reach 10 African countries by 2026, using Karen’s hub as a model for AI-era infrastructure.
Safaricom is launching Shujaa Labs, an AI startup incubator located inside the new facility. Beginning Q3 2025, the lab will offer:
- Compute credits
- Mentorship from experts
- Collaborative workspace for Kenyan developers and entrepreneurs
“Africa must not just adopt AI—we must help build it,”
emphasized Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa.
