Cassava Technologies and AXON Networks Form Strategic Alliance to Propel AI Adoption in Africa
In a significant stride toward technological advancement in Africa, Cassava Technologies, a leading tech company rooted in African heritage, has joined forces with AXON Networks, a pioneer in intelligent network solutions. This collaboration is set to revolutionize the way African businesses harness artificial intelligence (AI).
The Vision Behind the Partnership
Announced at the prestigious Counder Conference 2026 held in Cape Town, South Africa, this partnership aims to co-develop Africa's first comprehensive Operator-as-a-Service (OaaS) platform. The initiative expects to streamline and modernize the network solutions available for businesses across the continent, paving the way for digital transformation. The partnership promises to connect millions of individuals and companies through AXON’s AI-ready platforms, enhancing economic development and innovation in various sectors.
The Impact on African Businesses
Cassava Technologies emphasizes the urgent need for cost-effective, flexible, and high-performance network solutions as many businesses initiate their digital journeys. By collaborating with AXON Networks, they aim to transform traditional infrastructure into a programmatic, AI-managed network that will significantly lower operational expenses while increasing accessibility for consumers and service providers alike.
Hardy Pemhiwa, President and CEO of Cassava Technologies, stated, "By moving beyond conventional hardware-centric designs, we are crafting a dynamically programmable network to provide our customers with near-real-time network adjustments, a stark departure from previous models that took days or even weeks."
The Operator-as-a-Service Platform
This OaaS platform is anticipated to redefine connectivity across the continent by delivering a secure, private, and high-speed data framework that empowers mobile network operators, internet service providers (ISPs), and even satellite communications organizations. The integration of AXON’s cutting-edge technologies will facilitate unprecedented agility and intelligence, ultimately fostering an environment ripe for innovation and growth.
Martin Manniche, CEO of AXON Networks, expressed his enthusiasm about the venture, noting the exciting prospects of combining their Digital Twin technology with Cassava's extensive fiber footprint. Manniche described the initiative as an opportunity not just to optimize existing networks but to create a living ecosystem of services that would innovate and expand the reach of technology across Africa.
Counder Conference 2026
The alignment of these two tech giants was first revealed at the Counder Conference 2026, where key players from various sectors gathered to spearhead collaborative business ventures. Leaders and decision-makers from around the globe convened to identify growth opportunities in the African market. The Counder leadership network is known for encouraging partnerships that yield impactful technological advancements, and this announcement embodies that mission.
Transforming Network Infrastructure
AXON's innovative OaaS model promotes a self-learning, autonomous system structure that aims to optimize network capabilities across more than 110,000 kilometers of terrestrial and submarine fiber infrastructure. By transitioning to self-optimizing networks, this platform is designed to simplify operational complexities while ensuring fast service delivery and enhanced connectivity on a large scale.
About Cassava Technologies
Cassava Technologies operates a vertically-integrated ecosystem of services that cater to the needs of modern digital transformation. With a prominent presence in regions like Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, the company aspires to be a leading global player while celebrating its African roots.
About AXON Networks
AXON Networks is acknowledged for its revolutionary approaches to intelligent networking. Utilizing award-winning Digital Twin technologies, their OaaS solutions enable businesses to tap into the full potential of advanced networking, optimizing service delivery while enhancing overall customer experiences.
As Cassava Technologies and AXON Networks embark on this monumental venture, their combined efforts signal a new chapter in Africa's technological landscape, encouraging AI adoption and fueling economic growth for businesses of all sizes.