Morocco plans africa’s largest data center in dakhla

Thursday 09 - 09:16

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco plans africa’s largest data center in dakhla

Morocco has launched technical studies for the construction of Igouda, a project set to become Africa’s largest data center in the southern city of Dakhla. The initiative forms part of the country’s strategy to strengthen digital sovereignty and expand its role in data infrastructure across the continent.

Digital Transition Minister Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni announced the project during a ministerial panel at GITEX Africa 2026 in Marrakech. The event gathered more than 50,000 participants and over 1,450 exhibitors from 130 countries, reflecting growing global interest in Africa’s technology sector.

Speaking during a session focused on sovereignty in the age of artificial intelligence, the minister said the future data center will act as a “data embassy” positioned at the edge of the Sahel. The facility is expected to reach a capacity of 500 megawatts by 2030, placing it among the most powerful digital infrastructure projects on the continent.

The project is designed around renewable energy. It will rely entirely on green power sources and use Atlantic Ocean water for cooling systems. Officials say this approach aims to reduce environmental impact while supporting large-scale data processing and AI development.

The initiative also signals Morocco’s intent to share technical expertise with African partners, particularly in fields linked to artificial intelligence and digital architecture. Authorities view the project as a platform for regional cooperation and knowledge transfer.

French Minister Delegate for Artificial Intelligence Annee Le Henanff took part in the discussions, presenting the European Union’s approach to technological sovereignty. She said the EU seeks to reduce reliance on external providers in key sectors such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. She added that France is ready to share its experience with African countries pursuing similar goals.

Mark Alexandre Doumba, Gabon’s Minister of Digital Economy, stressed that access to affordable energy remains a critical factor for building AI-driven economies. He pointed to Africa’s potential advantage in this area, citing Gabon’s use of hydropower as a model.

The discussions highlighted a convergence between European and African strategies on digital sovereignty, with Morocco positioning itself as a central hub linking both regions through infrastructure, policy, and innovation.