Equinix Launches Its First Data Center In South Africa

Equinix Data Center In SA: US-based digital infrastructure company Equinix has officially launched its first International Business Exchange data center in South Africa.

First Equinix Data Center In SA

The multimillion-rand facility is located in Germiston, on the East Rand, close to the Oliver Tambo International Airport.

It currently provides over 1,900 square meters of colocation space in its initial phase, which will be expanded to 9,515 square meters when the site is fully built out.

In practical terms, JN1 features 700 cabinets now, with an initial capacity of 4MW. Once the expansion is completed, the site will host 3,475 cabinets and a total capacity of 20 MW.

According to ITWeb news, The data center features new deployments from Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Intelys Technology Group, Seacom, and WorkOnline Communications, as well as INX-ZA’s Johannesburg Internet Exchange.

Sandile Dube, managing director for South Africa at Equinix said: “This is the first Equinix Data Center In SA. Our brand new JN1 data center in Johannesburg, which serves as a powerful platform for people and businesses to connect, innovate, and flourish not only in South Africa but also beyond.

“The new site presents a truly unique opportunity for South Africans as it places us firmly on the map and will be a key interconnection hub on the continent to some of the fastest-growing countries and businesses in the world.”

“It is a proud day for me to be leading this expansion into South Africa and I believe that this is a crucial milestone for the country in its digital and connectivity journey for thousands of residents.”

Also Read: Equinix Finalizes MainOne’s Integration, Solidifies Its Presence In Nigeria

New Data Center To Create Opportunities For South Africans

The company first announced its plans to launch a local data center in December 2022, saying it was looking to invest $160 million (R2.8 billion) in the facility.

In November 2023, Sandile Dube, MD of Equinix South Africa, confirmed the near-R3 billion investment to construct the data center.

At the time, several stakeholders − including US Ambassador to South Africa Reuben E Brigety II and senior VP of sales at Equinix EMEA Johan Arts − conducted an onsite inspection of the basic structure of the data center.

Fast forward to 23 October 2024 and upon completion of the first phase, the new carrier-neutral facility has been unveiled.

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