JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — Google has surpassed its five-year target of investing $1 billion (about Sh129 billion) in Africa, unveiling a series of new artificial intelligence (AI), connectivity and digital infrastructure initiatives aimed at accelerating the continent’s digital transformation.
The announcements were made on Wednesday during the inaugural Africa Cloud Summit in Johannesburg, where the technology giant outlined fresh investments designed to strengthen internet connectivity, expand AI research and support African startups.
The latest initiatives build on Google’s expansion of its cloud infrastructure, including the launch of its Johannesburg cloud region in 2025, as the company deepens its presence across Africa.
“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.
New Connectivity Hub for Africa
Among the flagship projects is the establishment of Google’s first African connectivity hub in South Africa’s Eastern Cape.
The facility will connect Africa to Australia through the Umoja subsea cable while also providing a new route to India, improving internet resilience, increasing bandwidth capacity and reducing the risk of network disruptions across the continent.
Google said the Eastern Cape hub will be the first of four connectivity centres planned for Africa.
The investment is expected to strengthen digital infrastructure and support growing demand for cloud services, online businesses and AI applications.
Ghana to Host Africa’s First Applied AI Lab
Google also announced plans to establish Africa’s first Applied AI Lab in Ghana.
The facility will bring together local startups and Google researchers to develop practical AI solutions tailored to African challenges.
Participating innovators will receive early access to Google’s latest AI models, enabling them to build products in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and financial services.
The company said the initiative is intended to accelerate home-grown innovation while ensuring African developers play a greater role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.
Support for Creators and Startups
Google further announced a programme worth more than $1 million in partnership with Akuna Group, founded by British actor Idris Elba.
The initiative will train underrepresented African creators in AI-powered storytelling and digital content production.
In South Africa, Google will also collaborate with WeThinkCode through its Economic and Community Development Programme to establish a three-million-rand (about Sh21 million) Digital Innovation Centre in Soweto.
The centre is expected to provide technology training, entrepreneurship support and innovation opportunities for young people.
The company also pledged continued support for African entrepreneurs through its startup accelerator programme.
Google said it will support 15 South African startups as part of its broader commitment to assist 50 African technology ventures between 2024 and 2028.