What's Happening?
Burkina Faso has inaugurated two mini data centres as part of its efforts to enhance data sovereignty and digital infrastructure. These facilities, commissioned by Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel
Ouédraogo, are designed to support over 7,000 virtual machines, allowing each ministry to host between 100 and 300 virtual servers. The data centres are part of a larger digital transformation initiative aimed at repatriating public and private sector data currently stored abroad. The project, costing approximately XAF16 billion (around US$30 million), is expected to generate significant savings by reducing the need for foreign data hosting.
Why It's Important?
The launch of these data centres is a critical step in Burkina Faso's digital transformation strategy, aimed at strengthening national data sovereignty. By hosting data domestically, the country can enhance security, reduce costs, and build local expertise in managing digital infrastructure. This move is expected to foster innovation and support the development of a robust digital economy. Additionally, the project aligns with global trends towards data localization, which can protect sensitive information and ensure compliance with national regulations. The initiative also highlights Burkina Faso's commitment to leveraging technology for economic growth and improved governance.
