NTT: NTT expands its data center footprint in South Africa

NTT has announced the opening of a new data center in Johannesburg, South Africa. Named the Johannesburg 1 Data Center, this new 12 MW facility will cover 6,000 sqm of IT space when fully built out, introduced to meet growing digital demand. Research shows that Africa is currently in the midst of a digital boom, with estimates showing that 615 million users in sub-Saharan Africa will subscribe to mobile services by 2025, a 24% increase from 2020. As such, NTT plans to further expand its data center footprint in Johannesburg and other African cities to meet this demand. 

The facility will reportedly utilize a closed-loop chilled water system with air-cooled chillers, so that the water running through the cooling systems doesn’t evaporated, achieving a low power usage effectiveness (PUE) and water usage effectiveness (WUE), meaning that when faced with potential drought and subsequent water restrictions, the facility will still be able to operate efficiently. 

Speaking about this expansion, Florian Winkler, CEO, of Global Data Centers EMEA, NTT Ltd., said: “We’re incredibly proud to be investing in Johannesburg and extending our global data center footprint to South Africa. The country forms a significant part of NTT’s growth strategy as we continue to support Africa’s digital transformation. The opening of Johannesburg 1 will contribute towards the economic growth and social development of the region, as our clients shape the country of tomorrow.”

Michael Abendanon, Head of MEA, Global Data Centers EMEA, NTT Ltd., added: “Our presence in Africa is underpinned by the significant digital change we’re seeing across the continent. Companies providing new digital services need data center space with high power density, global connectivity, carrier neutrality, cloud network access, and on-site support to ensure they can continue to grow.”