Visa officially unveiled its first African data centre in South Africa, a move aimed at tapping into the continent’s digital payments systems.
According to the Visa company, the facility reflects Visa’s long-term commitment to Africa’s financial technology growth.
Speaking at the launch on July 23, 2025, Michael Berner, Visa’s Head of Southern and East Africa, said the data centre forms part of a broader approximately Ksh7 billion ($57 million) investment over the next three years.
“Visa continues to be very committed to the growth of the economy on the continent and building the data centre, which is frankly one of very few that are built outside of our core locations, which are the U.S., the UK and Singapore, is evidence of this commitment,” Berner said.
What It Means for Kenyans
Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa regulators are pushing for financial data to be stored within their borders.
The launch of Visa’s data centre is expected to support these efforts by helping improve the efficiency of cross-border payment systems and manage financial data locally across Africa.
The development adds to a growing trend of digital infrastructure investments on the continent.
In Kenya, Airtel Africa also announced plans to build a local data centre to increase focus on data control and digital capacity.
According to the company, the funding will support several priority areas across Africa, including:
- Expanding access to contactless and AI-powered payment solutions
- Promoting innovation among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
- Creating jobs within the digital economy
- Advancing financial inclusion, especially in underserved communities
Also Read: Mastercard Seals Deal with Uganda on Digital Transformation
Visa Opens First African Data Centre
A 2025 report by Genesis Analytics, commissioned by Mastercard, projects that Africa’s digital payments market could grow to $1.5 trillion by 2030, driven by increasing internet access and progress in financial inclusion across the continent.
Visa CEO Ryan McInerney said the new facility is part of efforts to meet rising demand for digital payments.
“Africa is experiencing an explosion in digital payments, and our Johannesburg data centre is designed to meet that demand while aligning with local regulatory expectations,” said Visa CEO Ryan McInerney.
Also Read: South Sudan Unveils New Digital Tax System with Transition Deadline
About Visa Company
Visa Inc. is a global payments technology company that facilitates electronic funds transfers worldwide, primarily through Visa-branded credit, debit, and prepaid cards.
It’s a key player in the digital payments ecosystem, connecting consumers, merchants, financial institutions, and governments across more than 200 countries and territories.
Visa offers a wide range of payment options, including credit, debit, prepaid cards, and various commercial solutions like purchasing cards and virtual cards.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates
