Africa’s first AI factory is now under construction, following a major partnership between and U.S. tech giant , one of the world’s most valuable companies.
The project, launched in , has received its first shipment of high-performance graphics processing units (GPUs)—the computing core behind artificial intelligence. Cassava will deploy in its South African facility by June, with plans to install an additional across over the next four years.
“Collaborating with Nvidia gives us the advanced computing capabilities needed to drive Africa’s AI innovation while strengthening the continent’s digital independence,” said Masiyiwa, who co-chaired the 2025 Global AI Summit on Africa in Kigali.
Masiyiwa has positioned the AI factory as critical infrastructure for Africa’s participation in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. With in investment under consideration, the project aims to empower startups, researchers, and small businesses with local access to cutting-edge AI tools—without having to rely on external infrastructure.
Nvidia will provide AI software through its , enabling scalable solutions built for African developers and enterprises.
“Our AI Factory empowers Africans to innovate locally,” Masiyiwa added. “The future comes from young people building apps, solutions, and startups—and now they can do it right here in Africa.”
Cassava President Hardy Pemhiwa emphasized the project’s regional scale, saying the rollout is central to unlocking the continent’s AI potential and boosting economic growth through digital transformation.
