Airtel Takes a Big Step in East Africa with New Data Center
In a significant move for the technology landscape in East Africa, Airtel has officially launched its
44MW Nxtra data center in Tatu City, Kenya. This state-of-the-art facility is set to establish Tatu City as the
premier data center hub in the region, leveraging
95% renewable energy to meet its operational needs. The site's dedication to sustainability has rendered it one of the greenest data centers globally, appealing to both investors and clients looking for eco-friendly solutions.
The new data center, built in phases, boasts a
highly reliable computing capacity of 44MW. It is equipped with next-generation servers and high-density racks designed for
GPU hosting, ensuring an exceptional availability rate of
99.999%. The infrastructure includes multiple redundant fiber paths and advanced security systems, which will reinforce its readiness for the increasingly data-driven demands of businesses in the region.
Building a Green Future for East Africa
Tatu City has invested heavily, pouring hundreds of millions into top-tier infrastructure, solidifying its position as a key player in the East African data services market. The city features a
135 MVA electrical substation and a robust distribution network that boasts an impressive 99.7% uptime. Notably, Tatu City is unique in providing
24/7 water supply for industries, comprehensive stormwater management, and extensive road networks, along with secure underground fiber networks.
As Stephen Jennings, founder and CEO of Rendeavour, the company behind Tatu City, stated, “For over a decade, we have been focusing on world-class infrastructure and sustainable energy options in Tatu City to make it an attractive home for data centers in East Africa.” He expressed confidence that Airtel's choice to establish Nxtra there is a robust endorsement of this vision. Upwards of a hundred enterprises already thrive in Tatu City, and Jennings anticipates that many more data centers will follow this trend.
Nxtra: A Foundation for Economic Growth
Yashnath Issur, CEO of Airtel Africa's data centers, highlighted that the construction of the largest data center in East Africa is aimed at fostering a flourishing digital ecosystem that supports businesses, accompanying governmental agencies, and creates new opportunities for local communities. He emphasized the commitment of Nxtra by Airtel to meet the highest global standards, showcasing reliability, scalability, and energy efficiency while adhering to sustainability practices.
Tatu City's commitment to renewable energy is central to its appeal. The center will directly meet a third of its energy needs with
solar power, while the connection to the Kenyan national grid, primarily renewable, further solidifies its position as one of the cleanest electricity supplies available for digital infrastructure.
Each day,
over 25,000 people call Tatu City home, with burgeoning development including
4,500 completed housing units and thousands of students attending nearby schools. The diverse businesses present span various sectors, boasting substantial investments and creating numerous job opportunities. Notables among these include
Emirates Logistics, Heineken, and
Hewatele.
Incentives for Businesses in Tatu City
Favorable conditions for businesses situated within Tatu City’s Special Economic Zone (SEZ) include a significantly reduced corporate tax rate of
10% for the first ten years, followed by a
15% rate for the subsequent decade, in contrast to the standard
30%. Additionally, the SEZ offers VAT exemptions on goods and services and waivers on import duties and stamp duties, positioning it as a lucrative location for business ventures.
About Tatu City
Tatu City is a new urban development spanning
5,000 acres located just outside Nairobi. Envisioned as a comprehensive living, working, and recreational environment, it is designed to accommodate over
250,000 residents and visitors daily. The city boasts schools, business districts, a medical clinic, green spaces, and recreational areas, aiming to create a seamless blend of community and commerce just
30 minutes from Nairobi, free from traffic congestion.
For additional insights into Tatu City, you can visit the official website at
www.tatucity.com. Further information about Rendeavour is accessible at
www.rendeavour.com.