Cassava Technologies Launches AI Unit to Drive Digital Transformation

CASSAVA Locations | Source: CASSAVA

Pan-African tech firm Cassava Technologies has unveiled a dedicated artificial intelligence (AI) business unit, Cassava AI, to enhance its digital services across Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. This new venture is set to offer a range of services, including data centers, cloud computing, cybersecurity, fiber connectivity, and renewable energy solutions.

A New Chapter for Cassava

Headquartered in London, Cassava AI builds on the company's existing partnerships with tech giants such as Microsoft, Google, AWS, Anthropic, Oracle, Atlas AI, Cerebras, and Palo Alto Networks. Cassava President and Group CEO Hardy Pemhiwa emphasized the unit’s extensive reach:

"Cassava AI is headquartered in London and can already provide services in any of the 40-plus markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, where Cassava Technologies group companies operate."

Leading the Charge

Ahmed El Beheiry, a seasoned technology and telecoms executive, will lead the new business unit. Under his guidance, Cassava AI aims to drive innovation and digital transformation in its target regions.

Investing in Talent

Cassava Technologies has invested heavily in human capital, training over 200 AI specialists within its 5,000-strong workforce. These experts are poised to assist clients in adopting generative AI (GenAI) technologies, ensuring a smooth transition to AI-driven business solutions.

Expanding Infrastructure

Cassava Technologies continues to invest in infrastructure to support its digital services. In June 2024, its data center business, Africa Data Centres, secured a R2 billion (approximately US$112 million) financing solution from Rand Merchant Bank to expand its Cape Town facility, doubling its capacity to meet the growing demand for cloud computing services.

Strategic Partnerships

Cassava’s commitment to Africa extends beyond infrastructure. In March, its business unit Liquid C2 partnered with Google Cloud and AI company Anthropic to deliver advanced cloud and cybersecurity solutions across the continent. This collaboration builds on a previous partnership with Google Cloud announced at the Africa Tech Festival in Cape Town in November 2023.

Driving Digital Transformation

The launch of Cassava AI shows the company’s commitment to leveraging AI for digital transformation in emerging markets.

“We are thrilled to welcome the eighth cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. These startups represent the future of African innovation, harnessing the power of technology to solve real-world problems and uplift their communities. We are committed to supporting these founders by providing them with the resources and mentorship they need to succeed and scale their solutions,” said Pemhiwa.

Bigger Picture

As Cassava Technologies continues to expand its capabilities, the establishment of Cassava AI represents a significant step forward. By combining AI expertise with its existing infrastructure and partnerships, Cassava is well-positioned to drive digital transformation across emerging markets. This move not only highlights the company’s foresight in recognizing the potential of AI but also its commitment to fostering technological growth in regions historically lagging in digital adoption.