Nvidia and Cassava to launch AI data centers in Africa

Cassava Technologies has partnered with Nvidia to establish Africa’s first artificial intelligence factory, equipping data centers with Nvidia’s advanced computing technology.

The AI factory will be launched in South Africa by June 2025, followed by expansions in Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, and Nigeria, according to Cassava’s website.

The initiative aims to provide businesses, governments, and researchers access to AI computing infrastructure to enhance innovation and efficiency.

“Our AI factory provides the infrastructure for this innovation to scale, empowering African businesses, startups, and researchers with access to cutting-edge AI infrastructure to turn their bold ideas into real-world breakthroughs,” Cassava Technologies chairman Strive Masiyiwa stated.

The facility will be powered by Nvidia GPU-based supercomputers, which will accelerate AI model training and development while ensuring data remains within the continent.

Cassava, a Nvidia Cloud Partner, aims to introduce accelerated computing in Africa for the first time.

The company also announced plans to use sustainable energy for its data centers, incorporating its pan-African fiber-optic network to provide AI-as-a-service (AIaaS).

Masiyiwa emphasised that digital infrastructure is critical for Africa’s participation in the AI-driven fourth industrial revolution.

He added that working with Nvidia strengthens Africa’s digital independence.

Nvidia’s vice president for EMEA, Jaap Zuiderveld, highlighted the potential of AI to address challenges in various industries, including healthcare, energy, and finance.

“Cassava offers crucial software and infrastructure to support businesses and organisations in accelerating AI development and promoting innovation across the continent,” he noted.  

Cassava Technologies operates across Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and the U.S., with business divisions including Africa Data Centers, Sasai Fintech, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies.