PAIX expands Accra data centre facility

PAIX Data Centres, a leading pan-African developer and operator of data centres, has announced the expansion of its facility in Accra to 1.2 MW 

This expansion represents a critical boost to the digital economy, supporting connectivity and economic growth in the region.

Africa50, the pan-African infrastructure investor and asset manager, has invested over US$30mn in growth equity in PAIX Data Centres to aid the company's expansion into new markets and upgrade existing facilities.

The expanded PAIX data centre, now one of the largest in Ghana, will enable internet service providers (ISPs), cloud providers, and enterprises to leverage robust digital infrastructure and improved connectivity, facilitating the African business community's growth in the digital era. Currently, it is estimated that between 10% and 30% of effective data centre demand in sub-Saharan Africa is being met.

Unlocking Africa’s digital economy

Africa50, aiming to attract new and substantial pools of public and private capital, seeks to accelerate strategic investments in green data centres, transmission lines, smart cities, fibre optic networks, and more, to enhance African productivity.

The upgraded facility features state-of-the-art infrastructure and robust security measures, ensuring optimal performance and reliability for mission-critical applications and services. It also incorporates advanced cooling and waste management systems, alongside increased integration of renewable energy sources to improve environmental impact.

Strategically located in Accra, the data centre offers low latency connectivity to major regional and international network routes and subsea cables, thereby enhancing overall service efficiency and performance.

Africa50's investment in PAIX Data Centres forms part of a growing portfolio of digital infrastructure assets aimed at driving growth in Africa's digital economy:

In May, Africa50 and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) signed an Implementation Agreement (IA) to develop the Kigali Innovation City (KIC). This 61-hectare smart city is projected to generate US$150mn in ICT exports annually and attract over US$300mn in foreign direct investment. In 2023, Africa50 entered a US$320mn partnership with Bayobab to develop Project East2West, a terrestrial fibre optic cable network intended to improve internet access and connectivity across ten regions in East and West Africa.

Raza Hasnani, managing director, head of infrastructure at Africa50 and chairman of the Board of PAIX, noted, "We share a deep conviction that high quality, sustainable infrastructure transforms economies and societies. Our over US$30mn equity investment in PAIX Data Centres is part of our broader strategy to create the connectivity required to accelerate Africa's digital transformation. We are proud that PAIX Data Centres is expanding and adopting best in class sustainability practices."

Bright Tawiah, managing director, PAIX Data Centres, Ghana, said, "This expansion reaffirms our dedication to providing best-in-class data centre solutions to our customers in Accra and beyond. As one of Africa's digital economy hotspots, Accra plays a vital role in driving innovation and growth across various industries. We are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation, enabling businesses to thrive in today's increasingly connected world."