LINX at AfricaCom 2024: Catalyzing Africa’s Digital Transformation with Local Interconnection

A Legacy of Connecting Communities 

Reflecting on three decades of operation, LINX has evolved into one of the world’s largest internet exchange points (IXPs), providing crucial interconnection services to networks globally. Nurani shared insights into LINX’s origins and ongoing mission: 

“LINX was founded in the early 1990s to ensure internet traffic stayed local, rather than routing through the US unnecessarily. Over the years, we’ve remained committed to doing what’s good for the internet—connecting networks and creating efficient, resilient ecosystems. Now, our focus is bringing that expertise to Africa.” 

Advancing Connectivity Across Africa 

LINX’s African journey began with the launch of an IXP in Nairobi, Kenya, last year. Since then, the hub has grown significantly, facilitating partnerships with major players such as Meta and Microsoft. LINX recently launched an additional hub in Mombasa and announced its expansion into Accra, Ghana. 

“Our goal is simple but transformative: keep African traffic within Africa. By localizing connectivity, we reduce latency, improve efficiency, and create a more resilient internet ecosystem,” Nurani said. “These developments are driven by our partnerships with local players, whose expertise and knowledge are invaluable.” 

Empowering Communities Through Collaboration 

LINX’s strategy is deeply rooted in collaboration, prioritizing partnerships with local data centers, IP associations, and other stakeholders. Beyond building infrastructure, LINX invests in community capacity through workshops, technical training, and knowledge sharing. 

“We never claim to be the experts on the ground. Instead, we work with local partners who understand their communities. Together, we share expertise to strengthen the local digital ecosystem,” Nurani explained. “It’s not just about infrastructure; it’s about empowering people and building for the long term.” 

The Future of Africa’s Digital Transformation 

Africa’s young and rapidly growing population presents immense opportunities for digital transformation. Nurani highlighted how the continent’s development trajectory differs from other regions, often bypassing traditional steps and leapfrogging straight to advanced technologies. 

“While challenges like limited fiber infrastructure remain, the rapid expansion of submarine cables, data centers, and cloud services is accelerating change. I believe Africa’s digital transformation will happen faster than in many other regions, and I feel privileged to be part of this journey,” Nurani said. 

A Catalyst for Growth 

By fostering local interconnection and strengthening regional collaboration, LINX plays a vital role in Africa’s digital ecosystem. Nurani concluded: 

“Our presence in Africa is about more than technology—it’s about building a future where connectivity drives growth, resilience, and opportunity for all. We’re here for the long run, committed to empowering the continent’s digital future.”