Google planning to create 4 infrastructure centers in Africa
Google is set to establish four major infrastructure hubs in Africa, marking a significant development in the continent's digital transformation journey. The hubs, expected to be completed within three years, will be located in the north, west, south, and east of Africa.
The announcement was made by Google's Africa managing director, Alex Okosi, who highlighted Africa as a significant growth opportunity for emerging technologies like AI. The hubs will house critical infrastructure such as landing stations and data centers, aiming to provide a foundation for AI deployment, cloud adoption, and digital innovation across African markets.
The development of these hubs could be a turning point in Africa's digital transformation. They are expected to ease challenges with internet access, bolster resilience, and enable faster, more affordable broadband access.
Google's West Africa Director, Juliet Ehimuan-Chiazor, made this announcement, noting that the project represents new investment beyond the $1 billion Google pledged for Africa in 2021. The project includes the landing of Google's cable in Lagos, making it the company's second successful landing in Africa after it reached Togo the previous month.
The improved backbone infrastructure is expected to create opportunities for telecom operators such as MTN Group Ltd. and Vodacom Group Ltd. Global technology companies are intensifying investments in Africa, drawn by its rapidly expanding, youthful population and rising demand for digital services.
Microsoft Corp. has recently announced plans to invest $1 billion in a geothermal-powered data center in Kenya and is spending about $300 million to scale artificial intelligence capacity in South Africa. The reports note that the new hubs, once completed, could provide a critical foundation for AI deployment, cloud adoption, and digital innovation across African markets.
The landing of Google's cable in Lagos is part of the Equiano and Umoja cables, set to land on the continent this year. Collaboration with network operators, technology companies, and international partners is a key part of these broader initiatives for 5G infrastructure and digital expansion on the continent. However, the specific companies involved or eligible to participate in these projects have not been explicitly named in the search results.
The improved digital services, faster connectivity, and reduced costs that result from stronger infrastructure stand to benefit businesses and consumers alike. This development could position Africa as a key frontier for global technology investments, further accelerating its digital transformation.
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