MTN to develop 150MW AI data centres in Nigeria, South Africa with UAE-backed investor

MTN Group is set to invest in the development of AI data centres in Nigeria and South Africa, with an estimated capacity of 150 megawatts (MW). The initiative, which involves a venture with an investor from the United Arab Emirates, aims to meet the growing demand for computing infrastructure in Africa's expanding artificial intelligence market.

MTN Group CEO Ralph Mupita revealed the plan on Tuesday, highlighting the company's strategy to move beyond traditional telecommunications. The data centres will initially focus on Nigeria and South Africa, sectors that are projected to see a significant increase in AI-related computing needs. Africa's data centre market is expected to require between $10 billion and $20 billion in fresh investment over the next few years to support this growth.