By Allen Fiford, CEO and Founder, GFRP Tech
Africa is experiencing a technological revolution, driven by rapid digital infrastructure growth across key markets like South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria. Central to this transformation is the expansion of data centres, that serve as the backbone for cloud computing, AI, and mobile connectivity services.
All images supplied by SWM Communications
As demand surges, innovative materials such as Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) are emerging as critical enablers, offering unique benefits to support the complex needs of modern data centre infrastructure and helping Africa meet its digital ambitions amid global industry trends and local market dynamics.
South Africa has established itself as Africa’s primary data centre hub, with major facilities concentrated in Johannesburg and Cape Town. These centres require materials that combine structural strength with non-conductive properties to avoid electromagnetic interference with sensitive electronic equipment. GFRP fits this niche perfectly, providing corrosion resistance and reliable support for heavy loads while ensuring operational reliability in 24/7 environments.
The presence of a local GFRP manufacturing facility, such as GFRP Tech’s Linbro Park facility, further enhances supply chain efficiency and cost-effectiveness for South African projects.
Meanwhile, Kenya and Nigeria are rapidly expanding their digital infrastructure, fueled by rising internet penetration and mobile connectivity. Hyperscale data centres being developed by international technology companies in these countries demand advanced materials capable of supporting high-density equipment, sophisticated cooling systems, and stringent fire safety standards.
GFRP’s combination of strength, chemical resistance and non-conductivity makes it an ideal solution for these demanding applications. Furthermore, government support for digital transformation initiatives in these markets incentivises the adoption of cutting-edge materials that enhance infrastructure resilience and sustainability.
These developments align with broader global data centre industry trends. The sector is undergoing a transformation driven by artificial intelligence (AI) integration, that demands significant increases in data centre power and cooling capabilities.
Liquid cooling is becoming essential to accommodate high-performance GPU clusters, while power infrastructure bottlenecks and energy demands are steering interest toward sustainable solutions such as nuclear power and small modular reactors (SMRs). In this context, materials like GFRP that improve operational reliability and reduce maintenance, align well with the industry’s shift toward high-efficiency, resilient, and sustainable data centre design.
As Africa’s digital infrastructure accelerates and many countries on the continent are looking to leverage these advancements, the continent is ensuring its place in the future digital economy. The synergy between leading-edge materials and expanding digital infrastructure will be key to powering Africa’s technological transformation in the years ahead.
