Google Invests $9M in African Universities, Launches AI Tools and Subsea Cable Hubs to Boost Connectivity

Google has reaffirmed its commitment to Africa with a major announcement that includes a $9 million fund for universities, new subsea cable connectivity hubs, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools aimed at empowering students across the continent. The move is part of Google’s long-term strategy to strengthen digital infrastructure, education, and innovation in Africa.

As part of this initiative, Google plans to establish four strategic subsea cable hubs in the northern, southern, eastern, and western regions of Africa. These hubs are expected to create new digital corridors, enhancing connectivity within Africa and between the continent and the rest of the world. The improved infrastructure is seen as a critical step toward accelerating the growth of Africa’s digital economy.

In addition, college students aged 18 and above in countries including Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zimbabwe will have access to a free one-year subscription to the Google AI Pro plan. This initiative aims to equip young Africans with advanced AI tools and skills, helping them participate in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Google’s $9 million fund will support African universities and research institutions over the next year. According to the company, the funding and tools focus on empowering Africa’s next generation through AI, expanding opportunities for innovation, and strengthening skills development. Alex Okosi, Google’s managing director in Africa, emphasized that the continent’s digital economy “will be driven by the talent and ingenuity of its next generation.”

This announcement builds on Google’s two-decade-long partnership with Africa, which includes training over 7 million people in digital skills and supporting 153 startups through the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa. The initiative has already helped these startups raise $300 million and create 3,500 jobs. Google said the latest measures underline its ongoing commitment to expanding connectivity, improving access to advanced tools, and enabling African-led innovation.

source: leadership