JOHANNESBERG, July 2 – Google says it has surpassed its five year target of investing more than $1 billion in Africa as it rolls out new projects aimed at improving internet infrastructure, artificial intelligence and digital skills across the continent.
The company announced the initiatives at its first Africa Cloud Summit in Johannesburg, building on the launch of its cloud region in the South African city last year.
As part of the expansion, Google will set up its first African connectivity hub in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. The facility will connect the continent to Australia through the Umoja subsea cable and to India via a new route, helping to improve internet capacity and network reliability.
Google also unveiled plans to open Africa’s first applied AI lab in Ghana. The centre will bring together local startups and Google researchers while giving participating businesses early access to the company’s AI models. In addition, Google is partnering with Idris Elba’s Akuna Group on a programme worth more than $1 million to train underrepresented creators in AI powered storytelling.
The company also said its Economic and Community Development programme and WeThinkCode will establish a 3 million rand digital innovation centre in Soweto, Johannesburg.
To support entrepreneurship, Google will add 15 South African startups to its accelerator programme. The move forms part of its commitment to support 50 African startups between 2024 and 2028.
“The AI opportunity for Africa is significant, and Google is committed to doing our part working with Africans to help Africa realise it,” said James Manyika, Google’s Senior Vice President for Research and Technology.
