Challenge
Africa is one of the world’s fastest-growing markets for internet use, with a forecast compound annual growth rate exceeding 40 percent through 2029. However, the continent’s digital infrastructure—such as fiber optic networks and data centers—remains inadequate to meet this surging demand. As digital connectivity becomes a cornerstone of economic development and geopolitical influence, strategic competitors including China have increased their investment in Africa’s digital landscape, often embedding opaque financing terms and technology that raise cybersecurity and data sovereignty concerns. Given these dynamics, ensuring that Africa’s digital future is built on secure, transparent, and resilient infrastructure is a matter of strategic importance for the United States and its allies.
Solution and Impact
To strengthen secure and reliable digital infrastructure in Africa, DFC has completed a $50 million strategic direct equity investment into Cassava Technologies Ltd., one of the largest pan-African digital infrastructure and services platforms. This investment enhances access to trusted digital services, countering risks associated with technology ecosystems that could be influenced by strategic competitors.
Cassava currently operates one of Africa’s largest fiber optic networks, spanning over 110,000 kilometers across 30 countries, along with several data centers in Sub-Saharan Africa. These data centers are carrier-neutral, interconnected, and provide secure digital services to major American hyperscaler clients and corporate customers. Additionally, Cassava offers generative AI, cybersecurity tools, financial services, and digital solutions, further reinforcing digital security and resilience across the continent.
DFC led the investment round alongside key partners, including Google LLC and the Finnish Fund for Industrial Cooperation Ltd. (Finnfund). This investment strengthens Cassava’s balance sheet, supports sustainable and profitable growth, and enables American technology firms to expand their presence in Africa. By backing an African digital infrastructure firm that prioritizes partnerships with U.S. and allied stakeholders, DFC’s investment directly counters strategic competitors seeking to dominate Africa’s digital space. This initiative underscores the United States’ commitment to fostering an open, secure, and transparent digital economy while reinforcing national security and geopolitical stability in an increasingly contested digital domain.
This project was profiled in 2025.