CMC Networks Accelerates AI-Powered Industrial Automation Across Africa

CMC Networks Appoints Mahesh Jaishankar as Managing Director to Drive Growth of AI-Powered Connectivity Across Africa

New Leadership for Digital Transformation

CMC Networks appointed Mahesh Jaishankar as Managing Director in September 2025. This strategic move strengthens the company’s AI-powered connectivity focus. Moreover, it enhances industrial automation capabilities across Africa. Jaishankar brings 25 years of digital infrastructure experience. He previously held key roles at Google and Arthur D Little. Therefore, his appointment signals strong commitment to technological advancement.

Expertise Driving Industrial Connectivity

Jaishankar’s background includes launching datamena as a global digital hub. This experience directly benefits industrial automation sectors. He understands hyperscaler and carrier requirements thoroughly. Additionally, his engineering and MBA education provides technical-commercial balance. According to MarketsandMarkets, the African industrial automation market will reach $4.2 billion by 2026. CMC’s leadership change addresses this growing demand effectively.

Corporate Backing and AIOps Innovation

Center3 completed CMC Networks acquisition in June 2024. Since then, CMC accelerated Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations adoption. The company now leads in African AIOps connectivity. Furthermore, it combines 35 years of regional experience with modern technology. This synergy creates robust solutions for PLC and DCS systems. World of PLC experts note this approach bridges traditional-industrial digital gaps.

Industrial Automation Applications

CMC’s connectivity solutions enable numerous industrial scenarios:

  • Remote PLC Monitoring: Real-time oversight of distributed control systems across multiple sites
  • ⚙️ SCADA Data Transmission: Secure and reliable data exchange for supervisory control systems
  • 🔧 Predictive Maintenance: AI-powered analytics to prevent industrial equipment failures

For example, a mining company improved operational efficiency by 30% using CMC’s SD-WAN solutions. Another manufacturer enhanced DCS reliability across five African countries.

Regional Impact and Digital Economy Growth

CMC Networks serves 62 markets across Africa and the Middle East. The company delivers diverse connectivity solutions including SD-WAN and MPLS. These technologies support critical industrial control systems. As a result, they enable reliable factory automation operations. Jaishankar’s TiE Dubai involvement further strengthens regional innovation networks.

Industrial Connectivity Solutions

CMC’s infrastructure supports various industrial protocols and applications. The network ensures seamless data exchange between PLCs and central control systems. It also provides robust security for sensitive industrial data. Moreover, the AIOps platform predicts network issues before they affect operations. This proactive approach minimizes downtime in manufacturing environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does CMC’s AIOps benefit industrial automation?
AIOps predicts network anomalies before they disrupt control systems. It maintains seamless PLC-to-SCADA communications. Therefore, it prevents production line interruptions.

What industrial protocols does CMC support?
The network handles Modbus TCP, Ethernet/IP, and PROFINET effectively. It also manages OPC UA communications between industrial devices.

Can CMC ensure reliable connectivity in remote African locations?
Yes. With 35 years of regional experience, CMC combines terrestrial and satellite solutions. This hybrid approach guarantees uptime for critical operations.

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