Kenya and iXAfrica Data Centers Collaborate to Strengthen Regional Internet Infrastructure
Kenya has taken a significant step in bolstering regional internet infrastructure through a partnership between the Kenya Internet Exchange Point and iXAfrica Data Centers. This collaboration has established a new peering Point of Presence at iXAfrica’s NBOX1 facility, the only hyper-scale data center in East and Central Africa.
With East Africa’s population nearing 500 million and internet penetration exceeding 35 percent, there is a growing demand for reliable internet services in the region. The new infrastructure aims to address this need by facilitating direct network interconnections and reducing latency, ultimately improving connectivity across the region.
This strategic implementation will benefit over 400 licensed operators and provide essential infrastructure for delivering high-quality internet services. Local Internet Service Providers stand to gain from reduced dependency on costly international routes, leading to cost savings that can be passed on to end-users.
Promising Growth Potential for the Digital Economy in East Africa
The digital economy in the region is showing promising growth potential, with projections exceeding $10 billion by 2025. The new Point of Presence serves as a foundation for sustained development by optimizing regional traffic management and enhancing network efficiency.
TESPOK CEO Fiona Asonga highlighted the partnership’s significance in building resilient internet infrastructure to support regional growth. The collaboration aims to ensure accessible and efficient internet services while promoting digital inclusion across East Africa.
iXAfrica Data Centers CEO Snehar Shah underscored the company’s commitment to regional digital transformation. The partnership solidifies iXAfrica’s position as the leading hyperscale data center in East and Central Africa, catering to the region’s expanding digital needs.
Aligning with Continental Objectives and Kenya’s Digital Innovation Leadership
The initiative aligns with broader continental objectives, particularly the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy 2020-2030. By optimizing traffic routing and enhancing international internet performance, the project enhances East Africa’s appeal for global investment and technological advancement.
Kenya’s stature as a digital innovation leader continues to grow with this development. The improved infrastructure facilitates better connections between hyperscalers and local networks, enhancing content accessibility and service delivery. It also positions Kenya as a pivotal gateway for global cloud and data providers seeking entry into the African market.
This regional interconnection development has implications beyond East Africa’s borders. The optimized routing infrastructure improves international internet performance and bolsters the region’s standing in the global digital ecosystem, fostering seamless cross-border communication and digital commerce.
Source: CIO Africa
