Google is expanding its artificial intelligence and cloud computing investments across Africa, unveiling a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure, developing local talent and helping businesses build AI-powered solutions.
The announcements were made during Google Cloud’s inaugural Africa Cloud Summit in Johannesburg, where the technology company outlined five new initiatives spanning connectivity, artificial intelligence, startups and digital skills.
Google said its Johannesburg Cloud Region could contribute an estimated $90.6 billion to Africa’s economy and support nearly 315,000 jobs by 2030, highlighting the potential economic impact of expanding cloud infrastructure on the continent.
One of the major developments is the planned construction of a Digital Exchange Port in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. The facility is expected to improve international connectivity and strengthen the resilience of Africa’s internet infrastructure. It will connect to the Umoja subsea cable, providing a direct route towards Australia while supporting a new undersea connection to India.
Google is also establishing Africa’s first Applied AI Lab in Accra, Ghana. The facility will support developers, startups, researchers and organisations working on applications for sectors including education, business and the creative economy.
The lab will provide African innovators with access to Google researchers and early access to selected AI technologies, with the aim of encouraging solutions designed around local needs.
Google is also increasing its focus on the continent’s startup ecosystem. Applications for the 2026 South African Google for Startups Accelerator are set to open on July 21, with 15 companies expected to receive AI-focused training, mentorship and equity-free support.
Skills development forms another part of the expansion. Google will work with WeThinkCode to establish a R3 million Digital Innovation Centre at South West Gauteng TVET College in Soweto, while Google.org is providing more than $1 million towards an AI education programme targeting underrepresented creators.
James Manyika, Google’s Senior Vice President for Research, Labs, Technology and Society, said the initiatives reflect the company’s long-term commitment to African innovation and talent.
The expansion comes as African companies increasingly move from testing AI tools to deploying them in practical business environments. Google says its latest investments are intended to give businesses, developers and entrepreneurs greater access to the infrastructure, skills and technology needed to participate in the continent’s emerging AI economy.