The African continent is undergoing a digital transformation, with a rapid expansion of data centres. In 2025, more than 200 data centres are operational across Africa. These centres are essential for supporting cloud services, artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, and local data hosting. Demand for digital services is on the rise, driven by increasing mobile penetration, improved internet connectivity, and growing business needs for data storage.
Leading Countries in Data Centre Growth
The data centre landscape in Africa is primarily shaped by a few countries. These nations have robust telecommunications infrastructure, reliable power supply, and strategic geographic locations. South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Egypt are currently the leaders in data centre development. Below, we will explore the top 10 African countries with the most data centres in 2025.
1. South Africa
South Africa continues to lead with approximately 49 data centres. This is largely due to its established telecom sector, strong internet connectivity, and access to international undersea cables. Furthermore, the country’s strong economy and demand from both local and international businesses continue to drive data centre growth.
2. Kenya
Kenya is a major player in East Africa, hosting about 18 data centres. The country’s renewable energy mix, including geothermal, wind, and hydroelectric power, provides a reliable and sustainable power source for data centres. Kenya’s growing reputation as a technology hub has also led to increased demand for digital infrastructure.
3. Nigeria
With a population of over 200 million people and rapid internet adoption, Nigeria is home to 16 data centres. Its booming tech ecosystem, driven by cities like Lagos, positions the country as the leader of West Africa’s data centre industry. Nigeria’s large population and expanding internet user base contribute to the increasing need for local data hosting.
4. Egypt
Strategically located between Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, Egypt boasts 14 data centres. The country’s access to undersea cables and government incentives for digital infrastructure development have made it a prime location for data centre expansion. Additionally, Egypt’s proximity to Europe boosts its attractiveness for regional data hosting.
5. Angola
Angola is emerging as a key player, with 8 data centres. The country has made strides in improving its telecommunications and energy sectors, creating favorable conditions for data centre development. Angola’s central location in Southern Africa makes it an attractive destination for data storage needs in the region.
6. Morocco
With 8 data centres, Morocco is becoming a major hub for data infrastructure in North Africa. Positioned between Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, it serves as a gateway for global companies looking to expand their data centre presence. Morocco’s growing digital infrastructure supports its role in the continent’s data centre development.
7. Ghana
Ghana has made significant strides in data centre development, hosting 7 data centres. The country’s political stability, growing internet access, and increasing demand for cloud services contribute to its rapid expansion in the data centre industry. Ghana is establishing itself as a leader in West Africa’s tech ecosystem.
8. Senegal
Senegal, with 7 data centres, has also experienced growth in its digital infrastructure. The country’s government has actively promoted ICT development, and its favorable regulatory environment has helped attract investments in data centre construction. Senegal is quickly becoming a key player in West Africa’s data hosting industry.
9. Ethiopia
Ethiopia, with its rapidly expanding population and tech sector, hosts 5 data centres. While the country’s data centre industry is still growing, Ethiopia’s large market size and government efforts to improve digital infrastructure make it an emerging hub for data storage in East Africa.
10. Côte d’Ivoire
Côte d’Ivoire ranks tenth with 5 data centres. The country’s growing economy and increasing demand for digital services have driven investments in data infrastructure. Côte d’Ivoire’s strategic location in West Africa makes it an ideal location for data centre expansion, particularly for businesses serving regional markets.
Factors Fueling Data Centre Growth
Several factors are driving the expansion of data centres in these countries. First, the demand for local data storage is increasing due to regulatory changes like data sovereignty laws. Second, many countries are investing in renewable energy sources, ensuring that data centres have reliable power supplies. Third, government policies supporting digital infrastructure, such as tax incentives and investment in connectivity, are playing a significant role in fostering growth.
Additionally, the rising adoption of cloud services, AI, and data-driven applications across industries is leading to an urgent need for more data centres. As companies seek to store and process data locally to meet regulatory requirements, demand for high-quality facilities continues to increase
