Safaricom has completed the first phase of its data center in Limuru, Kenya, with plans for a 2.8MW IT capacity by January 2026. The facility will adhere to Tier III standards, utilize solar energy, and include an innovation lab. Esther Karuga emphasized its competitive positioning alongside major tech firms.
Safaricom, a prominent Kenyan mobile operator, has successfully completed the first phase of its data center located in Limuru, Kenya. This facility, situated in Redhill, will consist of three buildings, with the initial building’s construction now finalized. The company aims to achieve an IT capacity of 2.8MW upon the completion of the second phase, slated for January 2026.
While the final IT capacity for the completed facility remains unspecified, the data center is being constructed to meet Tier III standards. Safaricom has emphasized the center’s commitment to sustainability, utilizing free cooling systems and combining grid power with solar energy. Additionally, the project includes an innovation lab designed for the testing of new concepts, though specifics have yet to be revealed.
Esther Karuga, the senior manager and overall lead of the Limuru facility at Safaricom, stated, “When we call it world-class, we’ve already been tested in terms of best practices and industry standards, and that means we play in the same league with Google and Microsoft.” Limuru is strategically located near Nairobi, which is already home to other significant data centers such as Digital Realty, Paix, Africa Data Centres, and MTN.
Safaricom also operates three additional facilities near Nairobi, specifically in Kisumu City, Thika, and Arena, as well as two facilities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This expansion indicates Safaricom’s ambition to enhance its data center capabilities and position itself competitively in the technology landscape.
In summary, Safaricom has successfully completed the first phase of its state-of-the-art data center in Limuru, Kenya. The facility aims to achieve significant IT capacity and uphold sustainability standards while integrating innovative testing strategies. This development situates Safaricom among the elite in the sector, as noted by its senior management.
Original Source: www.datacenterdynamics.com
