Leading data center operator in Kenya, IX Africa Data Centre, has been shortlisted for the annual Tech Capital Global Awards. As the only African nominee, IX Africa Data Centre’s selection highlights its pivotal role in advancing digital infrastructure within the continent.
Dubbed world’s first truly dedicated digital infrastructure finance awards, the Tech Capital Global Awards 2024 will recognize outstanding individuals, teams, and companies in the global digital infrastructure finance, development, regulatory, and supporting services sector.
Shortlisted for the prestigious Digital Infrastructure Location Award, which celebrates the attractiveness and investor-friendly environment of a particular geographic location for digital infrastructure investors and operators, IX Africa Data Centre is being acknowledged for its commitment to cultivating an attractive and investor-friendly ecosystem, characterized by regulatory facilitation, strategic geographic positioning, and tangible impacts through capital allocations.
Nominees for the Digital Infrastructure Location Award must showcase the presence of an enabling regulatory environment via active pursuit of digital infrastructure investment; amplify the inherent advantages of the location’s geography and attractiveness for digital infrastructure investment (proximity to key markets, access to resources and existing digital infrastructure) and the tangible impact of capital allocations (investments, partnerships or acquisitions) of the location.
Situated in Nairobi, IX Africa Data Centre operates as a cutting-edge, carrier-neutral colocation facility, serving as a central hub for digital connectivity and innovation. Leveraging Kenya’s status as Africa’s burgeoning technology epicenter, the company has positioned itself as a catalyst for digital transformation and economic growth within the region.
One notable aspect of IX Africa Data Centre’s operations is its strong emphasis on sustainability. Operating on a 92% green grid, the facility harnesses Kenya’s abundant renewable energy sources, including hydro, geothermal, wind, and solar power. This commitment to environmental stewardship not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also underscores the company’s dedication to responsible business practices.
Beyond its individual success, Kenya’s nomination for the Tech Capital Global Awards serves as a testament to Africa’s growing prominence in the global digital landscape. With the continent experiencing a rapid increase in internet penetration and connectivity, initiatives like IX Africa Data Centre play a crucial role in driving digital inclusion and fostering economic development across Africa.
Moving forward, the acknowledgment of IX Africa Data Centre in the Tech Capital Global Awards highlights the significance of acknowledging other digital infrastructure operators across Africa. Notably, between 2016 and 2021, Western and Central Africa experienced a remarkable surge in internet users, rising from 23 to 47 percent, while Eastern and Southern Africa saw an increase from 16 to 27 percent. These growth rates are among the fastest globally and are facilitated by digital infrastructure operators actively working to enhance connectivity and broaden access to digital services throughout the continent.
