Google has announced plans to expand connectivity and increase product access and skills across Africa, unveiling a new subsea cable connectivity hub in South Africa as part of its ongoing investments in the continent. This initiative aligns with Google’s long-term commitment of $1 billion to enhance digital infrastructure in Africa.
The tech giant’s investments include key projects like the Umoja fibre-optic subsea cable, which connects South Africa to Australia, and the Equiano subsea cable, linking Africa and Europe. The Equiano cable alone is projected to boost the GDP of Nigeria, South Africa, and Namibia by approximately $11.1 billion, $5.8 billion, and $290 million, respectively.
The new connectivity hub in South Africa is one of four being established across the continent (in northern, southern, eastern, and western regions) as part of Google’s Africa Connect infrastructure program. This initiative aims to create digital corridors within Africa and connect the continent to the rest of the world.
In addition to connectivity, Google will offer free one-year subscriptions to the Google AI Pro plan for college students aged 18 and older in several countries, including Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe. This subscription provides access to advanced artificial intelligence tools, such as Deep Research and Gemini 2.5 Pro, which can assist with assignments and writing tasks.
Google is also committing an additional $9 million (R156.2 million) in the upcoming year to support African universities and research institutions. The company has already trained seven million Africans and aims to train an additional three million students, young people, and teachers by 2030.
Alex Okosi, managing director for Google in Africa, stated, “Africa’s digital economy holds immense potential, driven by the talent and ingenuity of its next generation. Today’s announcements, spanning AI education, advanced tools for students, and expanded connectivity, represent a unified investment in the continent’s upward trajectory.”
He emphasized Google’s commitment to providing the foundational infrastructure, cutting-edge tools, and financial support needed for Africa’s youth to innovate and build a thriving digital future.