PAIX Data Centres, a leading provider of carrier-neutral colocation services, has unveiled plans to build a cutting-edge data center in Les Mamelles, Dakar, Senegal, further expanding its footprint across Africa. The facility is set to provide 1.2MW of critical power and 918 square meters of white space. It makes it a strategic addition to the region’s burgeoning digital infrastructure.
RELATED:ย Closing MSME finance gap in Cรดte dโIvoire and Senegal
The new data center will become operational in 2026, serving as a vital interconnection hub for West Africa, Europe, and South America. It will leverage Dakarโs robust submarine cable landing points, enhancing cross-continental connectivity. The project is expected to create around 200 construction jobs and 20 permanent roles, contributing to local economic development.
Strategic Expansion in Africa
This initiative marks PAIX Data Centresโ fourth major data center in Africa, following successful facilities in Ghana, Kenya, and an upcoming 5MW joint venture in Djibouti. The companyโs pan-African strategy aligns with its mission to provide world-class colocation and interconnection services to support the regionโs digital transformation.
CEO Wouter van Hulten highlighted Dakarโs strategic importance, stating:
“Dakar is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of Africa, Europe, and South America, making it an ideal location for expanding our carrier-neutral data center network. This facility will not only support Senegalโs growing digital economy but also bolster the regionโs role in global connectivity.”
Commitment to Sustainability
In line with its environmental goals, PAIX has pledged to use 100% renewable energy for its data center construction by 2030. The Dakar facility will incorporate sustainable practices, including the optimization of local resources and reduced water consumption. ย A critical focus in Senegalโs water-stressed environment.
Catalyst for Regional Economic Growth
The new Dakar data center is poised to:
- Boost Digital Infrastructure: Strengthen regional internet connectivity by serving as a neutral colocation hub for local and international carriers.
- Support Economic Development: Create job opportunities and attract investment in the digital economy.
- Enhance Connectivity: Leverage multiple submarine cable landing points in Dakar, improving cross-border communication and digital services across West Africa.
Pan-African Digital Network Expansion
PAIXโs planned expansion in Senegal is part of its broader strategy to develop a pan-African data center network. The company has established itself as a leader in providing high-quality and carrier-neutral colocation services. All of these are enabling businesses, governments, and global cloud providers to access reliable digital infrastructure across Africa.
With facilities in Accra, Nairobi, and the soon-to-be-launched Djibouti site, PAIX is building the backbone of Africaโs digital future. The addition of the Dakar facility will further cement the companyโs role in driving technological innovation and digital transformation across the continent.
The Future of Africaโs Data Economy
Africa is experiencing exponential growth in digital adoption, driven by rising smartphone penetration, increased internet access, and a booming tech ecosystem. Senegal, in particular, has emerged as a regional hub for innovation, making Dakar an ideal location for PAIXโs latest venture.
The new facility will play a pivotal role in enabling:
- Cloud Services Expansion: Providing the infrastructure needed to support cloud computing growth in West Africa.
- Improved Internet Access: Enhancing bandwidth availability and reducing latency for local businesses and users.
- Support for Emerging Technologies: Facilitating the deployment of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and big data analytics.
A significant milestone for Senegalโs digital economy
PAIX Data Centresโ investment in Dakar represents a significant milestone for Senegalโs digital economy and West Africaโs connectivity landscape. By leveraging renewable energy and innovative technologies, the company is not only expanding Africaโs digital infrastructure but also setting a benchmark for sustainable development in the data center industry.
With the planned facility, PAIX continues to build a bridge between Africa and the global digital economy, empowering businesses and fostering economic growth across the continent.