Axis Communications: Secure Data Center Supports East Africa’s Digital Growth

 iXAfrica built a highly resilient, carrier-neutral data center in Nairobi to support East Africa’s digital transformation. By implementing an integrated security approach, the company achieved full visibility, stronger compliance, and a scalable foundation for protecting critical infrastructure as it grows

By: Sienna Cacan, Enterprise Segment Marketing Manager, Axis Communications

E-mail: sienna.cacan@axis.com

iXAfrica is a carrier-neutral colocation provider focused on delivering world-class digital infrastructure for East Africa. When the company set out to build its flagship facility, NBOX1, the goal was to create a trusted environment for enterprises, cloud providers, and connectivity partners that rely on uninterrupted service and resilient infrastructure.

From the outset, data center security and operational resilience were central to the project. As a greenfield development, iXAfrica had the opportunity to design a comprehensive physical security framework aligned with international standards and customer expectations for transparency, uptime, and risk management.

Building a Secure Foundation

During construction, iXAfrica identified risks including perimeter intrusion, cable theft, tailgating, insider threats, and potential attacks on critical systems — all significant concerns when securing critical infrastructure. Initially dependent on manned guarding and manual checks, the site lacked the real-time visibility required for a modern Tier III facility

During construction, iXAfrica identified risks including perimeter intrusion, cable theft, tailgating, insider threats, and potential attacks on critical systems — all significant concerns when securing critical infrastructure. Initially dependent on manned guarding and manual checks, the site lacked the real-time visibility required for a modern Tier III facility. This made it difficult to respond quickly to incidents and maintain consistent oversight across the environment. To address this, iXAfrica needed an integrated approach combining video surveillance, perimeter protection, and intelligent access control to safeguard operations and support long-term resilience.

End-to-End Solution to Enhance Data Centre Security

To achieve this, iXAfrica implemented a comprehensive, end-to-end solution across indoor and outdoor environments, working closely with Axis and its local partner, Securex Agencies. High-resolution network cameras now monitor the perimeter, entrances, equipment rooms, and operational areas, strengthening situational awareness across the site. Network-based door controllers secure sensitive areas, enforce permissions, and maintain detailed audit trails essential for compliance.

By using a unified Axis Video Management Software (VMS), which manages both video surveillance and access control, iXAfrica can detect potential threats, streamline investigations, and maintain continuous visibility across the facility within a single platform. Built-in analytics further support proactive operations. Motion-triggered recording, door-held-open alerts, and automated notifications enable faster response while reducing the need for constant manual monitoring.

“The solution provided the integration, reliability, and image quality we needed,” says Clement Martineau, co-founder of IXAfrica. “The system is cohesive, stable, scalable, and designed to work together.”

Clearer Visibility Reduces Security Risks

With improved visibility across the facility, iXAfrica can now verify incidents more quickly and respond with greater accuracy — directly addressing the earlier challenge of limited real-time oversight. Unauthorized access attempts and tailgating events are captured clearly, strengthening investigations and reinforcing physical security controls. This enhanced visibility also allows the team to monitor contractor activity more effectively and reduce the risk of infrastructure theft.

“The solution provided the integration, reliability, and image quality we needed. The system is cohesive, stable, scalable, and designed to work together.” – Clement Martineau, Co-Founder, IXAfrica

As a result, iXAfrica has strengthened its alignment with global standards such as ISO 27001 and PCI DSS — a critical requirement for organizations managing sensitive data and mission-critical services. A clearer understanding of risk has also contributed to reduced insurance costs. For the security team, this shift has changed day-to-day operations. Instead of relying on routine patrols, personnel can now focus on more strategic tasks, improving efficiency while maintaining strong protection of critical assets.

A Collaborative Long-Term Partnership

iXAfrica highlights the importance of collaboration in delivering a reliable and future-ready security strategy. “It has been a smooth and professional experience,” Martineau says. “The support, training, and long-term thinking have been just as valuable as the technology itself.” Sustainability, ethical business practices, and cybersecurity were also key considerations throughout the project. The chosen solution aligned with iXAfrica’s vision for responsible, energy-efficient, and secure infrastructure — supporting both operational goals and broader business values.

Securing for a Smarter, Expanded Future

As demand for digital services continues to grow, iXAfrica plans to expand the facility with additional halls and operational spaces. The scalable security platform allows new cameras, access points, and analytics capabilities to be integrated seamlessly as the environment evolves. “Our expectations were fully met and, in many ways, exceeded,” Martineau concludes. “The system delivers reliability, stability, and complete visibility across the data centre.”

By investing in a future-ready security foundation, iXAfrica has created a modern, trusted environment that supports East Africa’s digital evolution — giving the team confidence in their ability to scale securely and sustainably into the future.