MTN Moves to Build AI Data Centres Across Africa with US and European Partners

MTN Group is making a major play in Africa’s digital future. The telecom giant is in advanced talks with U.S. and European firms to build a network of artificial intelligence (AI) data centres across the continent, marking one of its boldest bets yet on next-generation infrastructure.

At the heart of the strategy is Genova, a new MTN business unit tasked with developing and operating data centres that can power AI workloads, cloud services, and advanced enterprise applications. The company plans to lease computing capacity to third parties, partner with hyperscalers, and address a critical gap: Africa currently hosts less than 1% of global AI data centre capacity.

First Step: Nigeria’s $240 Million Data Hub

The first phase of this rollout is already underway in Nigeria, where MTN is investing about $240 million in a Tier III-certified facility in Lagos. Named the Sifiso Dabengwa Data Centre, the hub will deliver an initial 4.5MW of capacity, with room to expand to 9MW. Alongside colocation services, MTN will build local cloud infrastructure to give businesses faster, more reliable access to digital services without relying on servers abroad.

This project speaks directly to a growing demand for data sovereignty, faster processing speeds, and reliable local infrastructure. For Nigerian startups, financial institutions, and public agencies, having compute power closer to home could cut costs, reduce latency, and improve compliance with national data regulations.

Why AI Data Centres Matter

AI workloads are resource-intensive, demanding massive computing and storage capacity. Today, most African businesses depend on data centres in Europe, the Middle East, or North America, which increases latency, costs, and exposure to cross-border data policies.

By bringing capacity onshore, MTN hopes to:

• Reduce reliance on overseas facilities.

• Provide African enterprises with the infrastructure to build and deploy AI solutions locally.

• Tap into a fast-growing market for AI and cloud services, creating new revenue streams beyond voice and data.

Challenges Ahead

Still, the path is far from straightforward. Data centres require stable electricity, advanced cooling systems, and continuous high-speed connectivity. Power supply remains one of Africa’s biggest infrastructure challenges. MTN has signaled that renewable and alternative energy sources will be a priority, but the economics remain tough.

Scaling across multiple countries will also test MTN’s ability to navigate diverse regulatory environments, attract skilled personnel, and secure long-term financing. Partnerships with international firms could provide the technical and financial muscle needed, but execution on the ground will be critical.

What’s Next

MTN expects to finalize partnership agreements with U.S. and European players by the end of 2025, setting the stage for a continental rollout. If successful, the company could position itself as a backbone provider for Africa’s AI economy, much as it did for mobile connectivity in the early 2000s.

For now, Nigeria will be the proving ground. If the Lagos hub delivers on its promise, it could signal the start of Africa hosting not just consumers of AI, but builders and exporters of AI-driven innovation.