On September 22, Republic of Congo's Deputy Prime Minister Jean-Jacques Bouya, accompanied by Minister of Posts, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy Frédéric Nzé, conducted an inspection of key infrastructure projects in Brazzaville. The visit aimed to evaluate the progress of the new Data center in Bacongo and the solar farm in Kintélé. These projects are crucial for the country's digital transformation and energy security. The Data center, developed with the African Development Bank, will strategically protect national data.
The new Data center, located in the 2nd arrondissement of Brazzaville, is designed to ensure the secure storage of national data. Deputy Prime Minister Bouya emphasized that the project's development raised concerns about energy supply. The goal was to construct the center alongside a reliable and stable energy source, as it will handle multiple and strategic datasets. Bouya highlighted the importance of this infrastructure for the sub-region.
The inspection then proceeded to the Kintélé solar farm, intended to enhance the local electricity network. This solar farm is the largest in the Congo and will serve as a model to strengthen the country's energy resilience. Minister Frédéric Nzé noted that the Data center's delivery is expected within a month but is exposed to energy supply risks. Combining the visits allowed the ministers to assess how to make the Data center more resilient and economical.
Deputy Prime Minister Bouya stated that the acceleration of digital transformation requires the Data center as a foundation for the process. He mentioned that the installation is expected to be operational by the end of the year or early next year. Initial energy tests will begin within a month, followed by Data center tests within two or three months. Ensuring the client's data security is a top priority.
Minister Frédéric Nzé highlighted the importance of avoiding a situation where the Data center is not energy-autonomous. The Kintélé solar farm will provide a solution to make the Data center more resilient and economical. Nzé emphasized that relying solely on the national electricity grid or generators would pose significant risks, including high costs that would make it difficult to attract clients.
The solar farm and Data center projects are interconnected, with the farm providing a reliable energy source for the Data center. This ensures that the Data center can operate efficiently and securely. The ministers' inspection aimed to guarantee that these critical infrastructure projects meet the country's growing demands for digital services and energy security.
The successful completion of these projects will significantly enhance the Republic of Congo's digital infrastructure and energy resilience. The Data center and solar farm will play a crucial role in supporting the country's economic development and digital transformation. The government's efforts to ensure the reliable operation of these facilities demonstrate its commitment to creating a robust digital ecosystem.
Key points
- The Republic of Congo's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister inspected the new Data center and solar farm to assess progress and ensure energy resilience.
- The Data center, developed with the African Development Bank, will strategically protect national data and requires a reliable energy source.
- The Kintélé solar farm will serve as a model to strengthen the country's energy resilience and support the Data center's operation.
