Safaricom Completes First Phase of Advanced Data Centre in Limuru

Safaricom has completed phase one of its data centre in Limuru, Kenya, located in Redhill. This project will consist of three buildings and provide 2.8MW of IT capacity by January 2026. The facility will utilize sustainable energy solutions and include an innovation lab. Esther Karuga stated that the data centre meets world-class standards, ranking alongside Google and Microsoft.

Safaricom, the prominent Kenyan mobile operator, has successfully completed the first phase of its state-of-the-art data centre located in Limuru, Kenya, specifically in Redhill. This initial phase includes the construction of the first building, with plans for a total of three buildings on the campus. The data centre is expected to ultimately provide 2.8MW of IT capacity upon the completion of its second phase, anticipated for January 2026.

While the exact IT capacity upon full project completion remains undisclosed, Safaricom has confirmed that the facility will adhere to Tier III data centre standards. Moreover, the facility will incorporate energy-efficient technologies, utilizing free cooling methods and supplementing grid power with solar energy to enhance sustainability. An innovative lab is also a part of the project, intended to explore and test new technological concepts, though specific details have yet to be released.

Esther Karuga, the senior manager overseeing the Limuru facility, emphasized, “When we call it world-class, we’ve already been tested in terms of best practices and industry standards, which means we play in the same league with Google and Microsoft.” Situated just outside Nairobi, Limuru is strategically located near other major data centre operators, including Digital Realty, Paix, Africa Data Centres, and MTN.

In addition to the Limuru facility, Safaricom currently operates three other data centres in the Nairobi metropolitan area, along with facilities in Kisumu City, Thika, and Arena, as well as two additional centres located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

In summary, Safaricom’s completion of the first phase of its Limuru data centre signifies a significant investment in infrastructure aligned with global best practices. The centre will not only enhance Safaricom’s technological capabilities but also utilize sustainable energy sources. As the project progresses, it will position the company alongside major global players in data management, contributing to Kenya’s evolving digital landscape.

Original Source: broadcastmediaafrica.com