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Safaricom and iXAfrica Partner to Launch Kenya’s First AI-Ready Infrastructure
Safaricom https://www.safaricom.co.ke/ has formed a strategic partnership with iXAfrica Data Centre, Kenya’s leading hyperscale-ready operator. Together, they are delivering the region’s first AI-ready data centre infrastructure. The initiative targets enterprise and cloud customers across East Africa.
Through this partnership, businesses will gain access to advanced data centre technology. This includes high-power density systems ideal for AI computing, cloud services, edge computing, data analytics, and disaster recovery. The offering also supports scalable bandwidth options for growing demands.
Notably, the infrastructure is designed to support power-intensive workloads. It offers flexibility, efficiency, and resilience. In addition, government agencies and businesses will benefit from affordable and scalable solutions for data storage, backup, and computing.
Furthermore, local enterprises that rely on AI can now host their workloads within Kenya. This reduces costs and improves performance. It also ensures compliance with data protection regulations. As a result, Kenya is positioning itself to play a key role in the global AI economy.
Safaricom and iXAfrica Partner to Launch Kenya’s First AI-Ready Infrastructure
Enabling Innovation and Sustainable Growth
“As East Africa’s digital economy expands, businesses need infrastructure that supports innovation,” said Dr. Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom PLC. “With iXAfrica, we’re upgrading our enterprise services to global standards. This supports digital growth in line with our 2030 vision.”
The partnership includes a joint go-to-market strategy. It introduces enterprise suites starting at 350kW, with the potential to scale up to 1MW. Moreover, integrated connectivity and service options will help meet the demands of AI and cloud-first businesses.
According to Guy Willner, Chairman of iXAfrica, the partnership blends technical excellence with market reach. “Our AI-ready infrastructure, paired with Safaricom’s customer network, creates a digital ecosystem that will drive innovation across the region,” he said.
Importantly, the infrastructure supports data sovereignty. Enterprises can host and manage sensitive workloads locally. This ensures speed, compliance, and security. Safaricom also offers a complete solution—from colocation and cloud services to cybersecurity and managed services—all under a single contract.
The iXAfrica NBOX1 Nairobi Campus will have a capacity of 22.5MW. This makes it the largest data centre project in Greater East Africa. The facility serves a population of over 300 million and is located along major fibre routes. It is powered by low-carbon energy sources, aligning with Kenya’s renewable energy goals.
The impact will be felt across sectors. In financial services, AI can boost fraud detection, credit risk modeling, and hyper-personalized customer service. In manufacturing and retail, it will improve supply chain management, real-time analytics, and demand forecasting.
Ultimately, with over 49 million customers, Safaricom remains a leader in mobile services, fintech, and enterprise connectivity. This partnership combines Kenya’s strategic location, renewable energy capacity, and tech potential. Together, these factors will help position East Africa as a digital powerhouse.
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