The London Internet Exchange (LINX) has announced the launch of its new interconnection hub, LINX Mombasa, now operational within the iColo MBA1 and MBA2 data centers.
This multi-site, interconnected Internet Exchange Point (IXP) marks a significant step in enhancing digital connectivity in East Africa.
LINX Mombasa, operated by LINX, provides a resilient and future-proof platform for networks to exchange online traffic, reducing latency and improving performance through peering.
This expansion comes just over 12 months after the launch of LINX Nairobi, their first IXP on the African continent.
“We are thrilled to be extending our synergies with iColo with whom we have had a successful journey at LINX Nairobi. We were seeing a demand for LINX services in Mombasa when we came to Kenya, and I am very pleased we can now start delivering the same value here,” said Nurani Nimpuno, LINX Head of Global Engagement.
Mombasa, a key digital gateway in Kenya, boasts strong growth in the interconnection market and is connected to seven submarine cables linking Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
LINX’s global strategy aims to deliver value to existing member networks and contribute to the local connectivity ecosystem.
LINX Mombasa will offer content delivery networks and local ISPs an alternative interconnection point with services across a redundant platform.
LINX will be the first IXP with a physical presence in both Nairobi and Mombasa, utilizing Nokia switches, mirroring the technical setup of LINX Nairobi.
“We are delighted to host LINX Mombasa at our highly connected data center facilities; MBA1 and MBA2. This collaboration underscores our commitment to providing best-in-class infrastructure and services that drive digital transformation in Africa. The new IXP will create significant opportunities for partnerships, innovation, and growth in the region,” stated Ranjith Cherickel, Founder & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of iColo.
iColo’s Mombasa campus, with the addition of this exchange point, is expected to see a continued upward trajectory in peering traffic, solidifying Mombasa’s position as the Gateway to East Africa.
LINX is offering all services at LINX Mombasa free of charge for the first 12 months, from February 2025 to February 2026, including a free cross connect to the IXP from the iColo MBA2 site.
