ST Digital, a leading pan-African provider of digital services and operator of a Tier III data center, has unveiled ambitious plans to bolster its global presence by constructing additional data centers in three Francophone nations. Currently active in six countries—Cote d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Togo, Benin, Congo, and Gabon—the company’s expansion strategy aims to meet the escalating demand for robust data storage and processing capabilities across diverse regions.
This move aligns with ST Digital’s commitment to fortify its infrastructure and service offerings, catering to the burgeoning needs of customers in emerging markets. After securing some funding from UHURU Investment Partners, the Cameroon-based cloud services and infrastructure provider intends to utilize these funds to erect three new Tier III data centers in Gabon, Cote d’Ivoire, and Togo.
Group Director General of ST Digital, Anthony Same, highlighted that these three countries are among the seven where the company already delivers cloud services. The construction timeline indicates that the data centers in Gabon and Cote d’Ivoire will be operational by 2024, with the Togo facility slated for completion in 2025.
Amid the surge in digital services and reliance on data-driven technologies, the global demand for secure and efficient data storage solutions has escalated. By establishing a foothold in Francophone nations, ST Digital aims to empower local businesses and organizations with cutting-edge data infrastructure, facilitating technological innovation and economic expansion.
The accelerated digital adoption in Francophone Africa, particularly post-COVID-19 lockdowns, has seen the launch of over 300 digital financial services. However, the region grapples with inadequate digital infrastructure—ranging from connectivity to cloud and data centers—stifling substantial growth opportunities. While players like Orange have endeavored to address this demand with over five data centers across Africa, including in Egypt, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Morocco, and Burkina Faso, the market demand remains substantial.
