The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has entered a new era of digital infrastructure with the launch of its first certified Tier-III data center, offering open-access and neutral services for operators.
Building a dynamic digital ecosystem
This groundbreaking facility, named « OADC Texaf Digital » is the result of a joint venture between Open Access Data Centres (OADC) and TEXAF. OADC Texaf Digital aims to create a vibrant digital ecosystem in the DRC. It will support internet exchanges, content providers, cloud operators, telecom operators, and Internet service providers (ISPs), enabling these entities to offer a wide range of digital products and services to businesses and users across the country.
The new operational center, with a capacity of 2 MW, is a major milestone for the DRC. The center is on track to achieve ISO27001 certification by the end of 2024. Leading fiber-optic network providers are already connected, offering robust interconnection options for tenants.
Ensuring environmentally friendly operations
OADC Texaf Digital offers integrated digital infrastructure solutions. These include tailor-made colocation services and a variety of reliable connectivity and peering options. The facility is powered by hydroelectric energy, ensuring environmentally friendly operations with a low Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) ratio.
With a population of over 16 million, Kinshasa is at the heart of digital connectivity demand in the DRC and the surrounding region. The data center is strategically located within TEXAF’s digital hub, SILIKIN VILLAGE. It is operated by OADC, a WIOCC group subsidiary recognized as Africa’s fastest-growing data center company.
The facility boasts 1,500 square meters of computing space, capable of housing more than 550 racks. It offers colocation, interconnection, and peering services to a variety of clients, including enterprises, content distribution networks, and both local and international cloud providers. The center’s infrastructure is designed to enhance efficiency, accelerate digitization efforts, and improve service delivery to businesses and consumers.
Complete ecosystem of interconnection and peering
Mohammed Bouhelal, Managing Director of OADC Texaf RDC, highlighted the data center’s role in energizing various sectors of the DRC economy. He emphasized its potential to create rich digital ecosystems and provide content distribution networks and cloud providers with a top-notch peering location in the country.
The facility has already attracted more than 12 leading national and international operators. The banking sector has emerged as the primary adopter of OADC Texaf Digital’s solutions. Bouhelal noted that the center’s open-access, operator-neutral approach is set to revolutionize the country’s digital infrastructure by fostering a complete ecosystem of interconnection and peering.
OADC Texaf Digital follows operator neutrality principles, maximizing interconnection opportunities for all clients. This approach is expected to increase competition and improve profitability for operators, which, in turn, could help reduce internet connectivity costs for both individuals and businesses in the DRC. This could serve as a major catalyst for expanding the country’s digital ecosystem.
The launch of this cutting-edge data center marks a significant milestone in the DRC’s digital journey. It promises to accelerate the country’s digitization efforts, enhance ICT capabilities, and provide a solid foundation for future technological advancements. As the DRC continues to develop its digital infrastructure, OADC Texaf Digital is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s digital landscape.
