Itana, Africa’s first Digital Special Economic Zone, has unveiled the continent’s first full-stack growth zone for AI and data companies. The initiative aims to eliminate infrastructure barriers that prevent African startups from training large language models and storing data locally.
The new zone will offer affordable GPU compute, compliant data storage, a pipeline of AI talent, regulatory support, and startup capital. The goal is to empower local builders to create transformative technologies on African soil, reducing reliance on foreign platforms.
“Africa will not win in the AI age by consuming what the rest of the world builds,” said Future Africa’s Iyinoluwa Aboyeji. Itana CEO Mayowa Olugbile added that Africa must act now to avoid long-term dependence.
The launch also coincides with the region’s first-ever all-female solar technician cohort, reflecting a broader push for inclusive green and digital economies.
