Microsoft and AI firm, G42, have announced a digital investment initiative in Kenya, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, as part of a broader partnership with various stakeholders, including an initial investment of $1 billion spearheaded by G42.
A centrepiece of this initiative is the construction of a state-of-the-art green data centre by G42 and its partners. This facility, designed to run on Microsoft Azure, will establish a new East Africa Cloud Region. The project is set to enhance the digital infrastructure across East Africa and support a range of cloud services.
The initiative encompasses four key pillars to be pursued with local partners:
Local-language AI model development and research.
An East Africa Innovation Lab coupled with extensive AI digital skills training.
Investments in international and local connectivity.
Collaboration with the Kenyan government to ensure secure and reliable cloud services.
A formal letter of intent will be signed on Friday, 24th May, between Microsoft, G42, and the Ministry, facilitated by the governments of the United States and the United Arab Emirates.
Kenya’s President William Ruto highlighted the broader vision of this collaboration, stating, “in the spirit of mutual growth and shared prosperity, this is a stepping stone toward a brighter, more connected and digitally empowered future for the USA, Kenya, and the UAE. It embodies our collective aspiration to bridge the digital divide, accelerate technological innovation, and pave the way for a thriving digital economy that benefits the entire African continent and beyond.”
Sustainable Data Centre Infrastructure and New East Africa Cloud Region
G42, in partnership with local entities, will design and build a cutting-edge data centre campus in Olkaria, Kenya. This facility will be powered entirely by renewable geothermal energy and incorporate advanced water conservation technology. The data centre will provide access to Microsoft Azure and become operational within 24 months of signing the agreements. This cloud region aims to deliver scalable, secure, high-speed cloud and AI services, facilitating digital transformation across Kenya and East Africa.
Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, Brad Smith, noted the significance of the initiative, stating, “this partnership between two companies and three countries highlights a real opportunity to bring digital technology to the Global South safely and securely. This represents the single largest and broadest digital investment in Kenya’s history and reflects our confidence in the country, the government, its people, and the future of East Africa.”