EDITOR’ S QUESTION
WOJTEK PIORKO, MD AFRICA, VERTIV
Africa is on the threshold of a technological revolution, with Artificial Intelligence and Generative AI, reshaping global industries and economies. For local businesses, preparing for the complexities of AI demands is no longer optional but instead has become a necessity. A robust, scalable data centre infrastructure is the foundation upon which Africa can build its AI future.
The AI efficiency paradox, which highlights the conflict between AI’ s mounting computational demands and the urgent need for sustainability in data centre operations, is particularly pronounced in Africa. Local energy constraints could mean that concerns around AI’ s energy-intensive nature require creative solutions.
For instance, the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, can help to reduce dependency on traditional power grids, while also lowering operational costs and contributing to sustainability goals.
When it comes to AI implementation, a detailed plan is needed to be able to differentiate between calculated risks and reckless decisions. A deep understanding of critical factors plays a significant role in allowing businesses to approach infrastructure innovation with confidence.
This includes knowing what is technically possible when it comes to combining new and existing
The conflict between AI’ s computational demands and urgent need for sustainability in data centres, is pronounced in Africa.
technologies, how to get the most from existing infrastructure investments when retrofitting for AI, and planning today’ s AI factory with a view towards future transformations that will be required as densities continue to accelerate.
AI is more than just the technology itself; it represents new ways for businesses to innovate. From agriculture to healthcare and education, African industries are finding ways to integrate AI into their operations. However, this requires a fundamental overhaul of existing data centre operating models and infrastructure.
Critical infrastructure challenges will include the following; retrofitting existing data centre infrastructure in a transformative way; accommodating growing rack power densities; deploying liquid and hybrid air-liquid cooling; understanding that liquid distribution is as critical as power distribution; and ensuring power availability and intelligent grid interaction.
Power and cooling systems remain critical challenges for African data centres, especially as AI workloads increase energy consumption and generate significant heat. Overcoming the challenge of the separate management of power and cooling systems can lead to a first mover advantage.
Innovative cooling solutions, such as liquid cooling, are gaining traction globally and are well-suited to Africa’ s high-density environments. With the right strategies in place, Africa’ s data centre operators can leverage AI to drive both operational efficiency and long-term sustainability, positioning the continent as a leader in innovation and digital transformation.
28 INTELLIGENTCIO AFRICA www. intelligentcio. com