American technology company, Google, has officially opened its first African cloud region in Johannesburg, a major aspect of Google’s $1 billion investment pledge to accelerate Africa’s digital transformation.
Though operational since January 2024, the Johannesburg cloud region directly supports African businesses and multinational corporations operating on the African continent by providing access to cutting-edge technologies: innovative AI and machine learning, powerful data analytics, and comprehensive security solutions. This enables organisations to improve operational efficiency, build groundbreaking tools, and ultimately unlock new opportunities for growth.
Unveiled at the weekend, Google Cloud’s region builds on wider infrastructure investments into the continent. In May 2024, Google Cloud announced a new fibre optic cable route from Kenya to Australia – Umoja – which would join Equiano and now the Johannesburg Google Cloud region to form an initiative called Africa Connect that will enhance network access, making it faster, more reliable and more affordable. These infrastructure investments are crucial for bridging the digital divide and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their location, can benefit from the digital revolution.
President of the Republic of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, said: “The Google Cloud region in Johannesburg is a valuable investment in South Africa, fostering innovation across our economy. Google’s growing presence will benefit the people of South Africa and the rest of Africa by allowing firms and entrepreneurs to access the powerful potential of AI, transforming nearly every part of the economy.”
Chief Executive Officer, Google Cloud, Thomas Kurian, said: “Google’s longstanding commitment to Africa takes a significant step forward with the launch of the Johannesburg cloud region. By bringing cutting-edge cloud and AI technologies closer to the business and developers that are fueling the local economy, we hope to accelerate African innovation, bringing sustainable growth across the continent.”