African technology group Cassava Technologies has partnered with AXON Networks to build Africa’s first end-to-end Operator-as-a-Service (OaaS) platform. The partnership marks a major step toward Africa’s digital and AI future.
The two companies will combine Cassava’s high-speed fibre network with AXON’s AI-ready platform. Together, they plan to connect millions of people and businesses across Africa. In addition, they aim to unlock new paths for growth and innovation.
The partnership was announced at Counder Conference 2026 in Cape Town. The event brought together more than 500 global investors and business leaders, making it one of the largest private capital gatherings ever held in the Southern Hemisphere.
Businesses today need fast, flexible networks that are cost-effective and simple to manage. As a result, Cassava and AXON are moving beyond traditional hardware-based infrastructure. They are creating a programmable, AI-managed network that can be deployed and updated in near real time.
“By working with AXON Networks, we are turning our fibre network into a digital platform,” said Hardy Pemhiwa, President and Group CEO of Cassava Technologies. “This reduces costs, shortens delivery times, and helps us serve customers faster. More importantly, it allows us to support the full digital journey of our clients.”
AI-Driven Connectivity: A New Era for African Businesses
The Operator-as-a-Service platform supports mobile network operators, satellite providers, and internet service providers. It delivers secure, private, and high-speed data services, while giving providers greater agility and reach. Consequently, businesses of all sizes can adopt AI tools more easily, while smaller companies gain access to advanced network infrastructure.
AXON Networks brings its digital twin technology to the partnership, turning Cassava’s fibre network into a living, self-learning system. CEO and founder Martin Manniche said, “Together with Cassava, we are building a live, AI-driven network that supports growth, innovation, and digital independence for Africa.” He added that the system will also support Cassava’s planned AI-powered factory and help lay the foundation for Africa’s AI economy.
The platform covers more than 110,000 kilometres of fibre, including terrestrial and submarine networks, satellite capacity, and wireless connectivity. It automatically learns, adjusts, and optimises performance. As a result, it reduces complexity, improves reliability, and speeds up service delivery.
Leaders from Counder welcomed the announcement, highlighting the power of collaboration. Michel Weiss, Counder CEO, said the partnership reflects the event’s mission. Leonard Stiegeler, Counder Chairman, added that global leaders met in Cape Town to drive innovation in emerging markets.
Overall, this partnership demonstrates a bold step toward AI-ready infrastructure built for Africa, connecting the continent to the global digital economy and positioning African innovation at the centre of technological progress.
