Africa’s largest telecom operator, MTN Group, is in advanced talks with American and European firms to develop AI-focused data centers across the continent. CEO Ralph Mupita confirmed that partnerships are expected before year-end, with initial sites planned in several of MTN’s 16 operating markets.
The initiative is part of MTN’s broader Genova strategy to monetize its infrastructure while boosting Africa’s AI readiness. Energy reliability remains a key challenge, with MTN exploring renewable sources to stabilize operations.
MTN is already deploying AI in its internal operations, including network traffic optimization in Nigeria and intelligent fuel management in South Africa. In July, MTN Nigeria launched the Sifiso Dabengwa Data Centre, West Africa’s largest Tier III facility, with a 9MW capacity.
Africa currently accounts for less than 1% of global AI data center capacity, but competition is heating up, with rivals such as Microsoft, G42, and Airtel Africa also pursuing large-scale AI infrastructure projects.
