Clément Martineau

Co-founder and CTO

IXAfrica

Biography

Clément Martineau is a seasoned professional specializing in Real Estate, Construction, and Data Centres, with a deep understanding of the East African market. With over a decade of experience in Kenya, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the industry.

In 2012, Clément embarked on his journey in Kenya by overseeing Orange Telkom’s extensive Real Estate portfolio, comprising over 300 properties valued at around $250 million. During his tenure, he also spearheaded various construction projects for the telecom giant, notably contributing to the construction of the “LION 2” submarine fiber optic cable landing station, a critical infrastructure connecting Kenya and Mayotte. His efforts extended to enhancing the electrical infrastructure of key technical buildings, significantly improving their efficiency and performance.

Transitioning from Orange Telkom, Clément assumed the role of General Manager at Lighthouse Property Company, a Real Estate Development and Management firm associated with Chase Bank in Kenya. Here, he managed day-to-day operations, identified development prospects, and provided leadership for numerous residential and commercial projects.

Driven by his expertise and entrepreneurial spirit, Clément co-founded IX Africa Data Centre, a leading data center company. From identifying and acquiring land to overseeing the construction of the inaugural building, he played a pivotal role in the company’s establishment.

Additionally, Clément actively contributed to fundraising endeavors and currently managing ‘Projects’ and ‘Operations’ divisions.

Beyond his professional commitments, Clément served as a Trustee on the Board of the Telposta Pension Scheme, offering invaluable insights into governance. Recently, he assumed a board position at French Tech Nairobi in 2023, where he supports local startups in their journey to success.

Clément holds an engineering degree in Building Economics from Paris St Lambert, equipping him with a robust foundation to excel in his multifaceted roles.