Data centres are at the heart of a world driven by artificial intelligence (AI). But building the right kind of data centres—ones that are fast, green, and reliable—is crucial. Especially in Africa.
This was the key message from Fan Shixing, Director of Huawei’s Data Centre Facility Integration Business, during his keynote address at the AfricaCom / Africa Tech Festival 2024.
AI-driven data centres in Africa
Fan didn’t hold back on the demands of the AI era. Data centres must offer flexible evolution, be always on, and be optimised for space and speedy construction.
His keynote address stressed the need for a new generation of AI data centres (AIDC) to support the continent’s increasing desire for advanced, intelligent capabilities.
So, Huawei’s FusionBlock isn’t just about keeping up with global standards; it’s about leapfrogging into the future.
Designed with liquid cooling technology, it’s a solution that combines efficiency and flexibility with a commitment to sustainability.
Fan highlighted how this system reduces energy costs, boosts computing power, and ensures continuous operation—even in Africa’s most challenging environments.
Why liquid cooling matters
Traditional data centres rely on air cooling, but as Fan explained, the next generation will shift to a more efficient xPU platform with liquid cooling.
Fan said Huawei developed “new data centre solutions that use full-stack synergy technology for liquid cooling”. These centres offer flexibility, straightforward construction, and around-the-clock data recovery, he said.
This approach reduces energy use and increases server density, leading to better performance and stability.
The numbers are compelling.
Liquid cooling can achieve a power usage effectiveness (PUE) score of 1.15, meaning energy consumption is dramatically reduced without compromising quality.
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And with prefabricated assembly, FusionBlock DCs can be built 25% faster than conventional models, cutting construction time by months.
Beyond the tech: Partnerships and green practices
Fan stressed that no company can tackle the AI era alone, as well as the need for collaboration
“More open-minded and pragmatic actions are needed to build green, digital infrastructure and thus accelerate the intelligent era” he said.
“Only through collaboration can we achieve great things.”
Huawei’s green focus also extends beyond operational efficiency.
From solar-powered solutions to robust disaster recovery systems, the FusionBlock DC is built to withstand level 9 seismic events, level 17 winds, and extreme heat.
This makes it a resilient choice for regions prone to natural disasters.
The impact on industries and communities
The benefits of these advancements are far-reaching.
For businesses, the reduced cost of building and operating data centres means more funds for innovation.
For communities, it’s about access—reliable digital infrastructure opens doors to better education, healthcare, and job opportunities.
Huawei’s solutions don’t just address Africa’s connectivity gaps; they aim to future-proof the continent’s digital economy.
By integrating IT, platform, and industry applications, the FusionBlock DC brings industries closer to the goal of achieving intelligent operations.
Africa’s digital transformation
As the curtain closed on AfricaCom 2024, one thing was clear: the path to a green, intelligent Africa requires action today.
ALSO READ: Huawei’s plan for empowering a digital Africa
Huawei’s FusionBlock DC solution offers a glimpse of what’s possible when innovation meets sustainability.
From energy-efficient designs to rapid construction timelines, Huawei is proving that digital transformation doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense.
Instead, it can empower industries and individuals to thrive in a connected, intelligent world.
