Google Cloud Expands to Africa with Johannesburg Cloud Region, Driving Digital Transformation

Google Cloud has officially inaugurated its first African cloud region in Johannesburg, marking a major step in the company’s $1 billion commitment to accelerating digital transformation across the continent. Operational since January 2024, this development provides African businesses and multinational corporations with access to advanced AI, machine learning, data analytics, and security solutions, enhancing operational efficiency and fostering innovation.

The Johannesburg cloud region is part of a broader infrastructure initiative, Africa Connect, which includes the new Umoja fiber optic route from Kenya to Australia and the Equiano subsea cable. These investments aim to improve network reliability, accessibility, and affordability, helping to bridge the digital divide and support Africa’s growing digital economy.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the impact of Google’s presence, stating that the Johannesburg cloud region will drive innovation and create new economic opportunities. Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian reinforced this vision, highlighting the company’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge cloud and AI technologies closer to African businesses and developers to spur sustainable growth.

The launch event at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg featured keynotes from global and African industry leaders, including Tara Brady, President of Google Cloud EMEA, and South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi. Attendees engaged in business and technical sessions, with leading companies such as Accenture, Deloitte, and Liquid C2 showcasing Google Cloud-powered solutions.

Beyond infrastructure, Google Cloud is deeply invested in skills development and startup growth. Training programs like Cloud OnBoard, Cloud Hero, and Google Hustle Academy equip African entrepreneurs and businesses with expertise in AI, machine learning, data analytics, and digital marketing. Since 2022, over 15,000 small businesses in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa have benefited, with the 2025 edition placing a stronger emphasis on AI-powered business solutions.

Google Cloud also plays a pivotal role in supporting Africa’s startup ecosystem. Through Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, over 260 startups across 17 countries have received funding and cloud credits, leading to $600 million in follow-on investments and significant revenue and employment growth.

An economic impact study estimates that the Johannesburg cloud region will generate $90.6 billion in additional gross economic output and create over 314,900 jobs in South Africa by 2030. Google’s investments also extend to critical social initiatives, such as AI-driven flood forecasting and maternal health projects in Kenya, demonstrating the company’s broader commitment to Africa’s digital future.

Strive Masiyiwa, Founder of Cassava Technologies, hailed the Johannesburg cloud region as a transformative milestone for Africa, while business leaders from Accenture, Deloitte, and Pepkor underscored its potential to revolutionize industries through advanced cloud and AI capabilities.

With this expansion, Google Cloud is set to play a central role in shaping Africa’s digital economy, providing the infrastructure, tools, and expertise needed for businesses and governments to thrive in an AI-driven world.