Cassava Technologies

Cassava Technologies is a pan-African technology company providing a comprehensive ecosystem of digital solutions and infrastructure across Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. Founded by Zimbabwean entrepreneur Strive Masiyiwa, the company emerged from the Econet Group in November 2021. Cassava Technologies offers a wide range of services including data centers, cloud computing, cybersecurity, fiber connectivity, and renewable energy solutions to large multinational and local companies. The company operates Africa's largest independent fiber network, spanning over 100,000 kilometers and covering more than 300 towns and cities across the continent.

In August 2024, Cassava Technologies launched a dedicated AI business unit called Cassava AI, headquartered in London. This new division aims to leverage artificial intelligence to enhance the company's offerings across its markets. Cassava AI builds upon existing partnerships with tech giants such as Microsoft, Google, AWS, Anthropic, Oracle, Atlas AI, Cerebras, and Palo Alto Networks. The company has trained over 200 AI specialists within its 5,000-strong workforce to assist clients in adopting generative AI technologies.

Cassava Technologies' infrastructure includes a network of carrier-neutral data centers operated by its subsidiary, Africa Data Centers. In 2024, the company expanded its Cape Town facility, doubling its capacity to meet the growing demand for cloud computing services in South Africa. Cassava Technologies has also made significant investments in renewable energy through its Distributed Power Africa unit, which focuses on clean energy solutions.

Key customers and partnerships

Cassava Technologies has forged strategic partnerships with several industry leaders to enhance its service offerings. In September 2023, the company announced a collaboration with Atlas AI, an artificial intelligence analytics platform, to maximize the impact of connectivity and digital services across Africa. This partnership enables Cassava to deliver AI development capabilities tailored for its enterprise customers in Africa.

In March 2024, Cassava's business unit Liquid C2 joined forces with Google Cloud and AI company Anthropic to provide advanced cloud and cybersecurity solutions, along with generative AI capabilities, to businesses across Africa. This built upon a previous agreement with Google Cloud announced in November 2023. These partnerships underscore Cassava's commitment to bringing cutting-edge technologies to African markets and supporting the continent's digital transformation.