American technology giant Oracle has disclosed intentions to establish a worldwide data center in Nairobi, as unveiled by President William Ruto during a meeting with the company’s delegation on January 31, 2024.
It will be a regional data center, making it the second in Africa after setting up one in South Africa.
The delegation, led by Senior Vice-President Scott Twaddle, discussed the initiative, aligning with the Kenyan government’s strategy to expand fiber optic infrastructure, create digital jobs, and digitize government services.
Ruto expressed satisfaction with Oracle’s decision, emphasizing that the data centre’s establishment would drive the digital transformation of government, public institutions, businesses, and start-ups in Kenya.
“Kenya will continue to facilitate technology companies seeking to set up their footprints in Africa. In line with the government’s strategy to lay 100,000km of fibre optic, provide digital jobs and digitise government services, Kenya continues to be a prime destination for international IT companies. Pleased to note that American company Oracle plans to set up a global data centre in Nairobi,” Ruto stated.
The head of state has been across the globe seeking funding to boost the technological sector in the country. His administration has set up Jitume laboratories nationwide to equip Kenyans with digital skills.
