TALKING

Scaling data centres , cloud regions , energy , key challenges for South Africa

New technological trends such as AI-generated content , quantum computing , and 5G expansion are driving an insatiable demand for new data centres worldwide . In South Africa , this demand is particularly pronounced as the country positions itself as a critical hub for digital innovation and transformation across the African continent .

In South Africa , several key developments underscore the country ’ s commitment to expanding its data centre infrastructure .

Samrand , Isando , and along the R21 highway host a high concentration of data centres , including those operated by Africa Data Centres , BCX , NTT , Vantage , and Teraco .

These areas are attractive due to the availability of suitable land and the necessary infrastructure to support large-scale data centres . However , the availability of electricity remains a critical factor in determining the viability of these locations .

Microsoft has announced plans to build out its cloud infrastructure in new areas of South Africa to meet growing demand from both public sector and private organisations . This expansion is part of Microsoft ’ s broader strategy to accelerate digital transformation in South Africa and across Africa .

Microsoft initially entered the South African market by opening two Azure regions in 2019 , in Johannesburg and Cape Town . However , the Cape Town region was de-listed at the start of 2021 and may have been re-classified as a reserved access region .

AWS launched its own cloud region in Cape Town in April 2020 . Oracle followed suit , opening its Johannesburg OCI region in January 2022 . Telkom subsidiary BCX launched an Alibaba cloud region in Johannesburg last year , and Google recently inaugurated its first GCP cloud region in Johannesburg .

South Africa ’ s ongoing energy challenges necessitate innovative solutions and significant investment in reliable power sources to ensure the uninterrupted operation of data centres .

The expansion of data centre infrastructure is crucial for the country ’ s ability to harness the potential of AI , quantum computing , and 5G . To meet this demand , it is essential for stakeholders , including government , private sector , and international partners , to collaborate on the development of data centres .

This includes addressing challenges such as energy availability and ensuring the necessary regulatory and policy frameworks are in place to support the growth of this critical infrastructure .

The north and east of Johannesburg have emerged as preferred locations for major data centre operators . Areas such as Midrand ,

Matone Ditlhake , CEO Corridor Africa

The success of these endeavours hinges on the resilience and security of Kenya ’ s network infrastructure . As digital systems become increasingly intertwined with critical services such as government , healthcare , and finance , ensuring the reliability and security of network connections becomes paramount to success . department in Kenya is deploying country-wide network solutions to ensure wired and wireless connectivity for government offices across different counties . As a result , citizens and residents benefit from enhanced digital services , more interconnected government operations , and seamless communication .

A resilient network infrastructure equipped with robust security features is essential to safeguard against cyber threats and maintain trust in digital services and transactions .

As Kenya explores smart city development , the country will need to explore expanding network connectivity and seamlessly integrating new technologies to enhance efficiency and productivity . By encouraging the adoption of cloud services and simplifying IT operations , Kenya can foster a thriving ecosystem of digital innovation .

The country is also making strides in this direction with government entities working to implement more digital strategies and initiatives . One such government

Enterprises benefit from focusing on the network as well . A secure network foundation not only saves time and costs for IT teams but can even become a profit centre for companies . Today ’ s advances in network management and analytics tools mean that decisionmakers have full visibility into their network and can identify pain-points and opportunities for growth .

The role of network infrastructure in enhancing Kenya ’ s digital economy cannot be overstated . From enabling widespread connectivity and supporting the adoption of cloud services and data centres to protecting against cyber threats and unlocking new growth avenues , robust network infrastructure will be the backbone of advancing Kenya ’ s digital journey . p

32 INTELLIGENTCIO AFRICA www . intelligentcio . com