Safaricom has completed phase one of a new data centre in Limuru, Kenya, which will eventually provide 2.8MW of IT capacity. Built to Tier III standards, the facility will utilize free cooling and solar energy. An innovation lab is also part of the project, with further phases planned for completion by January 2026.
Safaricom, a prominent mobile operator in Kenya, has successfully completed the first phase of its advanced data centre located in Limuru, near Nairobi. This facility is situated within the Redhill campus, which consists of three planned buildings, with construction of the initial building now finished. The second phase aims to provide 2.8MW of IT capacity by January 2026, although the overall capacity upon project completion remains unspecified.
The data centre will adhere to Tier III standards, ensuring high reliability and performance. It is designed to utilize free cooling techniques while also integrating solar energy to supplement its power needs. Additionally, the project includes an innovation lab intended for testing new technological ideas, although specific details have not yet been disclosed.
Esther Karuga, the senior manager overseeing the Limuru facility, remarked, “When we call it world-class, we’ve already been tested in terms of best practices and industry standards, which means we play in the same league with Google and Microsoft.” This statement underscores Safaricom’s commitment to excellence in the data centre sector.
Limuru is strategically positioned close to Nairobi, which already hosts several significant data centre operations, including Digital Realty, Paix, Africa Data Centres, and MTN. Apart from the Limuru facility, Safaricom also operates three additional centres in and around Nairobi, along with two facilities located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
In conclusion, Safaricom’s completion of phase one of its data centre in Limuru marks a significant step in enhancing its technological infrastructure. With plans for increased IT capacity and a commitment to sustainability through free cooling and solar energy, the facility is poised to meet industry standards comparable to major global players. As further phases progress, the project is expected to bolster Kenya’s position in the data centre landscape.
Original Source: broadcastmediaafrica.com
