Deal Description: On July 11, 2023, WIOCC Group, a leading digital and infrastructure provider in Africa, and TEXAF, signed a landmark shareholder agreement for the operation of Open Access Data Centres (OADC) Kinshasa, which will be the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) first open-access, Tier-III certified (by the Uptime Institute), carrier-neutral data centre that is expected to go live in November 2023.

Chris Wood, Group CEO of WIOCC Group, whose subsidiary OADC, the fastest-growing data centre company in Africa, will operate the TEXAF-backed data centre, commented: “OADC Kinshasa will boost the DRC’s economy by delivering vibrant digital ecosystems and converged open digital infrastructure (CODI) services, including tailored colocation and reliable connectivity, which can be used by content providers, cloud operators, telcos and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to provide a multitude of digital products and services to business and domestic customers.”

With a population of more than 16 million people, Kinshasa is at the epicentre of demand for digital connectivity services within the DRC. Located within TEXAF’s Silikin Village, one of the largest digital hubs in Central Africa, the 2MW-capable OADC Kinshasa is an important, strategic element of digital infrastructure for the DRC, which the World Bank reports as being one of the most under-developed digital economies in Africa. It will also create rich and vibrant digital ecosystems and provide content distribution networks and cloud content providers with access to a quality peering location in the country.

Baker Botts L.L.P. represented WIOCC Group on all aspects of the joint venture documentation.

Chris Wood applauded Baker Botts for exceptional legal representation and support with the deal. Wood stated, “Baker Botts exemplified unparalleled expertise and unwavering dedication throughout the process, safeguarding our interests and meticulously handling every legal aspect. Their exceptional professionalism and strategic guidance were instrumental in fostering a successful and mutually beneficial partnership."

The Baker Botts London office team was led by Corporate Senior Counsel, Paul Exley, Corporate Partner Stuart Blythe, and Global Projects Special Counsel, Ed Hills.

For more information, please see WIOCC’s news release by clicking here.

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