PAIX Data Centres, one of the leading providers of digital infrastructure in Africa, has announced the construction of an innovative data centerA data center or data processing center (DPC) in Dakar, Senegal. This project strengthens the company’s expansion strategy in West Africa and aims to meet the growing demand for high-quality digital infrastructure in the region.
A Strategic Data Center for West Africa
Located on a 15.5-acre site in the Kitakyushu region, the new data center will be built with a critical capacity of 1.2 MW and will feature 918 square meters of usable space. This infrastructure is designed to provide high-performance colocationColocation facilities are a type of data center services with reliable connectivity for both local and international businesses. The first phase of the project will be operational in 2026, consolidating Dakar as a crucial node on the West African connectivity map.
Dakar already hosts four submarine connectivity cables (ACE, MainOne, SAT3, and SHARE), with the installation of new lines, such as the 2Africa cable, underway. This positions the data center as a key access point for emerging markets and a strategic gateway to Europe, South America, and the rest of Africa.
Economic and Social Impact
The construction and operation of the data center in Dakar will have a significant impact on the local economy, generating nearly 200 jobs during the construction phase and at least 20 permanent jobs for its operation. Additionally, the project will foster opportunities for local suppliers, from architects to maintenance companies.
The location in Senegal, with low-cost electricity and a power grid comprised of two-thirds renewable energy sources, reinforces PAIX Data Centres’ environmental commitment. The company aims to use 100% renewable energy in its data centers by 2030, aligning with its sustainability policy.
Commitment to the Digitalization of Africa
In collaboration with Africa50, an investment fund backed by 32 African governments, PAIX Data Centres aims to strengthen technological infrastructure in West Africa. This center will not only facilitate digital transformation in Senegal but also contribute to improving the region’s digital sovereignty by reducing its reliance on foreign infrastructure.
Wouter van Hulten, CEO of PAIX Data Centres, stated: “This project not only positions Dakar as a key connectivity point but also attracts global clients from networks, content delivery networks (CDNA CDN, short for Content Delivery Network) and cloud services seeking to serve emerging markets.”
Dakar: An Essential Node for Digital Transformation
The launch of this data center comes at a crucial time for West Africa, where the demand for technological infrastructure is soaring due to the growth of cloud computing and digital services. According to Yankhoba Ndiaye, managing director of Dariss Consulting, “this data center will enable local companies to access more efficient and secure data storage and management solutions, contributing to the digital transition and technological autonomy of Senegal.”
With this project, PAIX Data Centres reaffirms its commitment to being a key partner in Africa’s digital transformation, developing technology hubs that drive innovation, economic growth, and sustainability.
via: PAIX