By Prince Okafor

The outlook for data center growth in Africa seems optimistic, as experts disclosed that the continent possesses a significant advantage in terms of market size and potential.

Experts discloses that with a population of nearly 1.5 billion people, Africa’s youthful population, aged between 18-19, well-equipped to adapt to the digital environment’s continuous change set the continent apart.

In a presentation by Cloud and Service Provider Segment Sales Lead: Anglophone Africa at Schneider Electric Faith Waithaka, and Founder and CEO of Critical Facilities Efficiency Solutions, Kevin Kent, the demographic advantage is fast-tracking Africa’s role in the global data center market.

They stated that, “Africa’s geographical location, centrally positioned on Earth, provides major advantages in terms of connectivity and accessibility. Cities like Mombasa in Kenya are strategically located on sub-sea fiber links, serving as gateways to Asia and contributing to the processing of substantial data traffic.

“Multinational corporations are playing a pivotal role in harnessing the full potential of the African data center market. Bridging the data center skills gap is a crucial step, and these companies are increasingly hiring local engineers, imparting valuable expertise and exposing them to the global market.

“Infrastructure development is another crucial enabler of data center growth, with multinationals contributing to grid stability, efficient water management, and the introduction of advanced technologies. These investments lead to advancements in cooling systems, electrical equipment, and the promotion of renewable energy sources.

“Multinationals also have a significant role in ensuring local data centers align with international environmental sustainability principles. This involves implementing energy-efficient infrastructure, optimizing cooling systems, and managing water consumption effectively.

“In addition to environmental sustainability, social and governance factors come into play, as the data center industry has the potential to significantly improve education access through digital platforms, enhancing learning and skills development.

“With ongoing investments and its favorable geographical position, Africa is likely to become a major player in data center expansion and data processing. Over the next decade, a substantial portion of global data processing is expected to flow through Africa, solidifying its position as a key player in the data center industry.”