Google Cloud has officially celebrated the launch of its first African cloud region in Johannesburg, marking a major step in the company’s $1 billion commitment to accelerating Africa’s digital transformation.

Having been operational since January 2024, the Johannesburg cloud region provides businesses and organizations with advanced AI, machine learning, and data analytics tools, enhancing operational efficiency and driving innovation across various sectors. The initiative aims to empower African enterprises and multinational corporations by offering improved security solutions and fostering economic growth.

The Johannesburg cloud region is part of Google’s broader investment in Africa’s digital infrastructure. In May 2024, Google Cloud unveiled Umoja, a new fiber optic cable connecting Kenya to Australia. Along with the Equiano cable and the newly launched cloud region, these projects form Africa Connect, a strategic initiative designed to enhance network speed, reliability, and affordability across the continent.

Speaking at the launch, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa lauded the development, stating, “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.”

Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Google’s commitment to Africa’s digital future. “By bringing cutting-edge cloud and AI technologies closer to the businesses and developers fueling the local economy, we hope to accelerate African innovation and drive sustainable growth,” he said.

The launch event at Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg featured keynote speeches from industry and government leaders, including Tara Brady, President of Google Cloud for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa; Alex Okosi, Managing Director of Google Sub-Saharan Africa; and South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi. The event included business and technical discussions, a partner expo, and live demonstrations of Google Cloud’s capabilities.

Premier sponsors of the event included Accenture, ADG, Deimos, Deloitte, Digicloud, and Liquid C2, alongside over 20 exhibitors. Attendees also heard customer success stories from prominent organizations such as 4G Capital, FNB, Government of Benin, Healthbridge, Jaguar Land Rover, Moniepoint, Openserve, Pepkor, Salus, Smollan, Syft, Travelstart, and Vodacom.

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Google Cloud has been instrumental in equipping Africans with critical digital skills through training programs such as Cloud OnBoard, Cloud Hero, and Google Hustle Academy. Since 2022, the Hustle Academy has trained over 15,000 small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, with the 2025 edition set to focus on AI-powered business training.

The company is also fostering Africa’s startup ecosystem through initiatives like Google for Startups Accelerator Africa. Over 260 startups across 17 African countries have benefited from this program, collectively raising more than $600 million in follow-on funding. These startups have seen a 31% increase in employment and a 25% rise in monthly recurring revenue.

A recent Public First digital impact study highlighted the economic benefits of Google’s digital investments in Africa. In 2023 alone, Google Cloud, along with Google Search, Google Play, YouTube, and Google advertising tools, contributed $16 billion in additional economic activity across Sub-Saharan Africa. The report predicts that for every $1 invested in digital technology in the region, over $2 in economic value will be generated by 2030, with even higher returns in leading nations.

As Google Cloud continues to expand its presence on the continent, the Johannesburg cloud region is expected to serve as a cornerstone for Africa’s digital revolution, bridging the digital divide and driving long-term economic growth.