West African digital infrastructure receives a significant boost as LINX sets up an Internet Exchange Point in Ghana
The London Internet Exchange (LINX) has recently launched LINX Accra, a significant digital infrastructure project that is set to revolutionise Ghana's and West Africa's internet ecosystem. This modern Internet Exchange Point (IXP) will enhance Ghana's standing as a key interconnection hub for the region, fostering technology innovation and improving connectivity.
The launch, which took place in late 2024, will see LINX Accra become operational from mid-2025. The IXP is part of LINX's strategic expansion into Africa, following previous launches in Nairobi and Mombasa.
LINX Accra plays a pivotal role in strengthening Ghana's digital infrastructure by connecting multiple major data centers, including Digital Realty’s new ACR2 facility near Accra’s submarine cable landing stations. This direct interconnection reduces the need for international traffic routing, thereby lowering latency and internet costs.
Ghana's strategic position, with six major submarine cables fueling its international connectivity, is further leveraged by LINX Accra. By situating the IXP close to these landing stations, it fosters more resilient and scalable internet infrastructure for Ghana and its neighbours.
The IXP provides scalable, future-proof interconnection fabric and low-latency services like peering, encouraging the growth of local internet services, data centers, cloud computing, content delivery networks, and broader technology innovation in the region. LINX Accra is a neutral platform that encourages collaboration among networks, service providers, and stakeholders, which is crucial for sustainable and cost-effective internet growth, fostering innovation and a competitive digital market.
The launch of LINX Accra could catalyse innovation and economic growth across West Africa. Phase one of its rollout will be hosted across Onix and PAIX data centres, providing network operators with a single cross-connect, giving them access to LINX's peering services and improving network performance while reducing costs.
The Honourable Minister Samuel Nartey George, Ghana's Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, delivered a keynote address at the launch event, affirming the government's commitment to digital transformation and local interconnection. The launch of LINX Accra reinforces Ghana's reputation as a critical global node for data exchange and technology innovation.
The new IXP is anticipated to attract global digital services to Ghana, boosting the country's digital economy by enabling faster, more reliable internet essential for startups, fintech, e-commerce, education, and government digital services that drive innovation and socio-economic development. LINX Accra is a cornerstone digital infrastructure project that enhances Ghana’s and West Africa’s internet ecosystem by improving connectivity, lowering costs, increasing resilience, and supporting the vibrant growth of technology innovation and digital services in the region.
References: [1] London Internet Exchange (LINX). (2024). LINX Accra Launches as New Internet Exchange Point in Ghana. Retrieved from https://www.linx.net/news/linx-acra-launches-as-new-internet-exchange-point-in-ghana/
[2] Digital Realty. (2024). Digital Realty Expands African Footprint with New Accra Data Centre. Retrieved from https://www.digitalrealty.com/news/digital-realty-expands-african-footprint-with-new-acra-data-centre/
[3] Internet Society Ghana Chapter. (2024). LINX Accra Launch: A Milestone for Ghana's Digital Infrastructure. Retrieved from https://isocgh.org/linx-acra-launch-a-milestone-for-ghanas-digital-infrastructure/
[4] Ghana Network Operators Group (GhNOG). (2024). LINX Accra: Building Local Expertise for a Sustainable Digital Ecosystem. Retrieved from https://ghananog.org/linx-acra-building-local-expertise-for-a-sustainable-digital-ecosystem/
- The operationality of LINX Accra from mid-2025 will signal the inclusion of cutting-edge technology, as part of LINX's strategic expansion into Africa, within Ghana's digital infrastructure.
- With the IXP connected to multiple major data centers, including Digital Realty’s new ACR2 facility, LINX Accra will foster technology innovation by ensuring low-latency services and improving connectivity for Ghana and West Africa.
