Over the past five years Africa has grown exponentially in so many ways – but none more so than in data centres. Not just the number of data centres that are now present across the continent, but the size, capacity and their offering has consistently grown. Africa has started to become a real contender on the global data centre stage, and although only accounting for less than 1% right now, the next five years promises big things.
Let’s dive in and take a look at what’s on the horizon and why Africa is becoming a real contender for investors and a player on the global stage;
Regional hubs
South Africa is the leading data centre hub within Africa with over 60 data centres – Nigeria (25) and Kenya (19) are following close behind. These three hubs not only house the most number of data centres but also the largest in terms of capacity (350MW in South Africa). Yet over the past year new data centres have opened in Angola, Mozambique, Cote D’Ivoire and Senegal. Whilst there are new projects announced in the existing hubs for 2026 and beyond, the investment and interest in alternative regions shows both huge potential and also puts other, lesser known regions on the global map.
Power
Like many geographical regions across the world the creation and operation of data centres relies on power. Not just the accessibility to power sources and infrastructure but also in some cases the opportunity for self sufficiency. Africa, unlike other continents, has a wealth of opportunity when it comes to power – solar, hydro, natural gas, wind, the list is endless. Yet, one of the biggest obstacles facing Africa’s data centres is infrastructure and the grid. Clean grids, grid connections and back up power are daily challenges facing Africa’s data centres and they are also increasing operational costs. One solution is campuses, data centres that generate and utilise their own power sources – likely solar. This self sufficiency allows for minimal reliance, if any, on existing power infrastructure and also works towards cleaner grids and output.
Connectivity
With Africa’s population reaching over 1 billion it’s hard to comprehend that less than 40% are connected to the internet. What’s also surprising is that in many cases the cost of the internet is over 25% of a monthly salary, making the internet unaffordable and inaccessible. Now more than ever governments are tackling this issue head on and making those who cannot access the internet a priority. In order for Africa to future proof its data centres industry there is a need to increase connectivity, ultimately driving consumer engagement and demands. The presence of the hyperscalers in Africa is positive and highlights the direction the market is headed in and whilst it may seem a mammoth task to connect over 1 billion people it can be done.
Talent
It’s fair to say that Africa has suffered from a ‘brain drain’ over the past five years. Young talent has been emigrating to other geographical areas where new skills and experience can be learned. This gap has caused a major issue for Africa and forced industries to look outside of the box to build a talent pipeline. However, with investment growing across the continent a shift has started to occur, talent is no longer leaving and unexpectedly talent is coming back. There is a drive to be a part of Africa’s data centre future and a desire to share skills learned. Coupled with this there is also a surge in organisations such as WiSSA (Women in Sustainable STEM) working to create accessibility to industries where careers can be achieved. Collaborating with governments, education institutions and schools the understanding of opportunities and the access to them is growing in Africa, making the talent pipeline for data centres stronger and more resilient.