The London Internet Exchange (LINX) is set to enhance internet connectivity in Africa with the launch of two new internet exchange points (IXPs) in Ghana and Kenya by early 2025. This strategic expansion underlines the growing demand for internet services across the continent, aiming to bolster both local and international connectivity.
The LINX Accra facility in Ghana will be established in phases, utilizing data centers from popular local providers Onix and PAIX. This phased rollout is designed to create a comprehensive and interconnected system, allowing various networks to connect through a single cross-connect. Such infrastructure will not only enhance redundancy but also improve interconnectivity among local internet service providers (ISPs), thus supporting the growing digital landscape of Ghana.
In a similar vein, LINX Mombasa will be the second IXP in Kenya, joining the existing LINX Nairobi setup. Located at the iColo MBA2 facility, this new point will significantly increase internet capacity through high-speed 100G ports. The partnership with iColo, a subsidiary of Digital Realty, guarantees that the Mombasa site mirrors the functionality and effectiveness of its Nairobi counterpart. Both facilities are expected to strengthen interconnection throughout the East African region.
Ghana and Kenya, strategically located along Africa’s coastlines, are prime candidates for this expansion due to their accessibility to numerous submarine cable landing points. This geographical advantage positions them as potential hubs for internet traffic across the continent. LINX’s approach not only seeks to improve local connectivity for ISPs but also to enhance international network connections, thereby contributing to the global internet ecosystem.
The initiative aligns with the growing number of users and the rising need for internet services driven by digital transformation across Africa. According to recent reports, internet penetration in sub-Saharan Africa has increased significantly, with millions of users embracing online platforms for education, business, and communication. The establishment of IXPs is critical in this context as they facilitate efficient data exchange between networks, reduce latency, and lower costs for ISPs.
For example, in Nigeria, the establishment of the Nigeria Internet Exchange (NIX) in 2006 led to a dramatic decrease in the cost of internet access. By keeping local traffic local, NIX helped reduce reliance on expensive international bandwidth. Similarly, LINX Accra and Mombasa are expected to foster a similar economic transformation in their respective regions.
The project is not without challenges; infrastructure bottlenecks, regulatory hurdles, and technological gaps can hinder progress. However, LINX is addressing these issues proactively by collaborating with local stakeholders, ensuring that the rollout of these IXPs adheres to local regulations while also meeting international standards.
In conclusion, LINX’s planned IXPs in Ghana and Kenya represent a pivotal advancement for internet infrastructure in Africa. By fostering a robust and interconnected digital ecosystem, these facilities are set to support local ISPs while paving the way for enhanced global connectivity. This move underscores a broader commitment to improving internet accessibility and digital transformation across the continent, ultimately elevating the economic prospects of the regions they serve.
