By Dylan Bettencourt
- Altron opened South Africa’s first AI factory, powered by Nvidia technology and hosted locally at Teraco data centres.
- The factory supports local firms like Dataviue, Lelapa AI and MathU to build South African solutions using world-class AI tools.
Altron has launched South Africa’s first operational artificial intelligence (AI) factory – and it’s already serving five launch customers.
Powered by Nvidia’s advanced AI systems and hosted at Teraco, the facility gives local businesses access to AI tools while keeping their data safely within South Africa’s borders.
Launch partners include analytics firm Dataviue, translation startup Lelapa AI and education non-profit MathU.
Altron’s Chief Technology Officer Bongani Andy Mabaso said the AI Factory wants to help South African companies solve local problems using local technology.
“Our goal is to support local companies solving South African problems with South African solutions,” he said.
The AI Factory allows businesses to build and deliver AI services faster, without having to spend on costly infrastructure.
The platform was developed with support from ASUS, which provided the hardware, and HPE, which powers the AI services marketplace.
Teraco’s Di Buijs said the facility uses an Nvidia AI-Ready data centre, allowing industries such as banking and public services to use AI securely and stay compliant with local regulations.
MathU founder WA Burger said the platform gives them access to top-level AI tools adapted for South Africa. “It helps us grow our personalised learning platform quickly and with confidence,” he said.
Altron’s Mike Wright said the new AI Factory gives local businesses world-class AI infrastructure and expertise without relying on overseas resources.
Pictured above: An Altron factory.
Image source: Altron
