The Algerian government has officially launched the construction of a new AI data center in Oran, with the foundation stone laid by the Minister of Post and Telecommunications, Sid Ali Zerrouki, this week in the Akid Lotfi district. While specific details about the facility have not been disclosed, it is expected to provide essential technological resources for researchers, startups, and academic institutions.
Algeria aims to have AI contribute 7% to its GDP by 2027, with President Abdelmajid Tebboune expressing his vision to establish the country as a leader in innovation and digital technology within Africa. In addition to this new project, the People’s National Assembly launched a data center in Algiers last November.
Huawei also announced plans to collaborate with the Algerian government on building another data center to support the country’s digital transformation, although further details remain under wraps. This development comes as China unveiled its China-Africa Action Plan for Digital Cooperation and Development, which includes plans to build a digital technology cooperation center and support digital infrastructure projects across Africa, including 5G, smart cities, and e-commerce.
Despite the growing interest in African data centers, Algeria’s market remains relatively small and currently lacks a hyperscaler presence. However, local companies such as HostArts, Ayrade, ICOSNET, and ISSAL are actively providing hosting services, primarily in Algiers and Oran.
