Strive Masiyiwa has always been ahead of the curve. In the 1990s, he challenged Zimbabwe’s telecom monopoly and emerged victorious, bringing mobile phones to millions. Decades later, the billionaire founder of Econet is once again moving in silence, this time laying the groundwork for Africa’s digital future.
At the heart of his vision is Cassava Technologies, a sprawling group that pulls together his ventures in connectivity, data centres, and cloud services. Through its subsidiary, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Masiyiwa controls more than 100,000 kilometres of fibre across 14 African countries—“the most extensive in Africa,” as he often points out.
But fibre is only the beginning. Cassava also owns Africa Data Centres, which he describes as “the largest network of interconnected, carrier- and cloud-neutral facilities on the continent.” In simple terms, these centres keep Africa’s data within Africa, powering everything from banking to streaming to government services.
Betting big on AI
Masiyiwa’s latest play is even more ambitious. He has announced plans to build five AI factories in Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco, at a cost of $720 million.
“Africa cannot afford to be left behind in the AI revolution,” he says. “These factories will ensure we build and train our own AI models, on our own data, within our own borders.”
He calls the project the Sovereign AI Cloud, designed to reduce dependence on foreign tech giants.
“Right now, most of Africa’s data is stored overseas. That means jobs are overseas, value is overseas, and even our privacy is overseas. That must change,” Masiyiwa insists.
Challenges on the road ahead
Of course, the challenges are steep. Power shortages, import costs for advanced chips, and competition from global players are real hurdles. Masiyiwa doesn’t deny them, but he frames them as opportunities.
“Every challenge is a chance for innovation. We built telecoms when everyone said it was impossible. Why should this be any different?”
If he succeeds, the story of Strive Masiyiwa will be about building Africa’s digital backbone.
“AI will shape the next century,” he says. “And Africa must not arrive late to the party.”
