Google to Launch Four Africa Infrastructure Hubs to Boost Subsea Cable Connectivity
Google has announced plans to establish four new infrastructure hubs across Africa, aiming to connect its latest subsea fibre-optic cables to the continent. The move, confirmed by Google Africa Managing Director Alex Okosi in an interview with Bloomberg TV, is part of the tech giant’s ongoing push to expand digital infrastructure and improve internet access in Africa.
These hubs, which typically include critical facilities such as landing stations and data centers, will link the subsea cables to the northern, western, southern, and eastern regions of Africa. While Google has not revealed the specific cities selected, the initiative is expected to significantly enhance connectivity in a continent where internet access remains expensive, uneven, and vulnerable to cable disruptions.
Okosi said the funding for the hubs will come directly from Google, though he declined to share precise costs. He emphasized that these are “new investments” and highlighted that the company has already surpassed the $1 billion pledge it made in 2021 to invest in Africa over five years. The new infrastructure is slated for completion within the next three years.
The hubs could make it cheaper for telecommunications companies such as MTN Group Ltd. and Vodacom Group Ltd. to deliver broadband services to customers, helping bridge the continent’s digital divide. With Africa hosting the fastest-growing and youngest population globally, demand for reliable internet and access to emerging technologies like artificial intelligence continues to rise.
Okosi noted that Africa presents a “huge opportunity” for AI and digital growth. Google’s investments complement other tech initiatives on the continent, such as Microsoft’s $1 billion geothermal-powered data center in Kenya and its $300 million AI expansion in South Africa. By strengthening internet infrastructure, Google aims to ensure that Africa can fully harness the potential of AI and other digital technologies.
source: business day