Paix Data Centres, a leading African cloud and colocation provider, has announced the construction of a state-of-the-art data center in Dakar, Senegal. The facility, located in the Les Mamelles area, aims to bolster digital infrastructure and drive economic growth across West Africa. Scheduled to become operational in 2026, the facility will cater to the region’s growing demand for reliable and efficient data services.
Key Specifications of the Dakar Data Center
Critical Power and White Space Capacity
The Dakar facility will deliver 1.2MW of critical power and span 918 sqm (9,880 sq ft) of white space. Designed to optimize operational efficiency, the facility will incorporate advanced technologies to minimize energy consumption and operate at optimal temperatures. Paix has also committed to conserving water resources, a vital initiative for water-stressed regions.
Renewable Energy Goals
In line with its sustainability pledge, Paix aims to use 100 percent renewable energy in constructing its data centers by 2030. This initiative underscores the company’s dedication to environmentally responsible operations and aligns with global efforts to combat climate change.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The construction phase of the Dakar data center is expected to generate nearly 200 jobs, while around 20 full-time employees will manage the facility upon its completion. This investment not only boosts local employment but also reinforces Dakar’s position as a critical connectivity hub in West Africa.
Dakar: A Strategic Connectivity Gateway
Dakar’s strategic location makes it a key gateway for international connectivity. Currently, the city hosts four submarine cables—ACE, MainOne, Sat3, and SHARE. The upcoming 2Africa cable, set to land in the coming months, will further enhance Dakar’s connectivity and data exchange capabilities.
“Paix Data Centres’ investment in the Paix Dakar data center positions it at the crossroads of connectivity between West Africa, Europe, and South America,” said Wouter van Hulten, CEO of Paix Data Centres. “The strong network hub created by multiple submarine cable landing points connecting to terrestrial cables makes Dakar a very attractive gateway.”
Paix’s Expansion Across Africa
Existing Facilities and Upgrades
Paix Data Centres currently operates three facilities across Africa. Its first data center in Accra, Ghana, was acquired in 2018 and upgraded to a capacity of 1.2MW in May 2024. The company’s second facility, located in Nairobi, Kenya, opened in 2020.
Future Developments
In May 2024, Paix announced a joint venture with the Djibouti Sovereign Fund to construct a 5MW data center, set to open in 2026. This partnership reflects Paix’s commitment to expanding its footprint and meeting the growing data infrastructure needs across the continent.
Senegal’s Growing Data Center Market
While Senegal’s data center market is relatively small, all existing facilities are concentrated in Dakar. These include data centers operated by Onix, Sonatel, Diamniadio, and Free au Senegal. Notably, the Onix data center serves as the landing station for the 2Africa cable, reinforcing Dakar’s role as a connectivity hub.
Investment Backing
Paix’s expansion efforts received a significant boost in 2022 when Africa50, an infrastructure investor and asset manager, invested $20 million to support the company’s entry into new markets. This financial backing enables Paix to drive innovation and establish its presence in underserved regions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the capacity of the new Dakar facility?
The Dakar data center will offer 1.2MW of critical power and 918 sqm of white space.
When will the Dakar data center become operational?
The facility is expected to be operational by 2026.
How does Dakar’s location enhance its connectivity?
Dakar hosts multiple submarine cables—ACE, MainOne, Sat3, SHARE, and the upcoming 2Africa cable—making it a strategic hub for international data connectivity.
What is Paix’s sustainability goal?
Paix aims to use 100 percent renewable energy during the construction of its data centers by 2030.
How many jobs will the Dakar facility create?
Approximately 200 jobs will be created during construction, with around 20 full-time positions available once the facility is operational.
