South Africa data center boom faces scrutiny over resource use

Civil rights groups in South Africa are calling for a halt to the construction of new data centers until the impact on scarce water, land, and electricity resources is fully investigated. While the country hosts approximately 70% of Africa’s data center capacity, organizations have raised concerns regarding a lack of transparency surrounding these large-scale digital infrastructure projects.

The South African Human Rights Commission reported receiving over 250 submissions from interested groups following a call for input in May. Dr. Eileen Carter, who leads the commission’s preliminary process, noted that key issues include the availability and consistency of information regarding electricity and water demand, environmental impacts, and the effects on surrounding communities.

Major U.S. technology firms, including Amazon, Microsoft, and Equinix, are increasingly investing in the nation’s digital infrastructure. However, recent municipal approvals, such as an Equinix hyperscale facility in Cape Town, have drawn criticism due to the city’s history of severe water scarcity.