Cassava Technologies, a pan-African technology and data services firm, has announced the creation of a separate business unit focused on artificial intelligence (AI). The new unit, Cassava AI, will offer integrated services including data center, cloud computing, cybersecurity, fiber connectivity, and renewable energy solutions to enterprise customers in key international markets.
Driving Generative AI Adoption
In a statement, Cassava—which owns Africa Data Centres—revealed it has trained over 200 AI specialists to assist clients in adopting generative AI. Cassava President and Group CEO Hardy Pemhiwa said, “Cassava AI is headquartered in London and can already provide services in any of the 40-plus markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America where the Cassava Technologies group companies operate.”
Veteran Leadership and Strategic Partnerships
The AI unit will be led by Ahmed El Beheiry, a seasoned technology and telecoms executive. Prior to launching Cassava AI, the company forged partnerships with tech leaders including Microsoft, Google, AWS, Anthropic, Oracle, Atlas AI, Cerebras, and Palo Alto Networks. The unit will coordinate Cassava’s relationships with AI giants and take control of providing AI-related services. Cassava AI aims to lower the barrier for enterprises to deploy generative AI, especially in high-growth regions such as Africa and the Middle East.
Expanding Digital Infrastructure with Sustainability
The integration of renewable energy services within the AI unit underscores Cassava’s commitment to sustainable computing. By combining data center capacity, cloud platforms, and cybersecurity, Cassava AI is positioned to support large multinationals and local businesses in their digital transformation journeys. This strategic move is expected to strengthen Cassava’s role as a critical digital infrastructure provider across the Global South.