Google South Africa launched a new cloud region in Johannesburg, representing a significant $109 million investment. This infrastructure provides local businesses access to a global network of advanced data services, projecting to contribute $2.1 billion to the GDP and create 40,000 jobs by 2030. The investment supports Africa’s digital transformation and tech ecosystem, benefiting startups across the continent.
On March 16, 2025, Google South Africa unveiled its new Google Cloud region in Johannesburg, representing a pivotal advancement in business and technology for the continent. This initiative enables Africa to access a premier data warehouse platform, enhancing local business capabilities significantly.
With this new region, South Africa joins Google’s extensive global network, which includes 40 regions and 121 zones, facilitating cloud services across 200 countries. Ferdinand Steenkamp, Co-Founder at Tregter, noted that local businesses would benefit from enhanced service delivery, contributing approximately $2.1 billion to South Africa’s GDP and creating over 40,000 jobs by 2030.
The African internet economy is projected to reach $180 billion by 2025, accounting for 5.2% of the continent’s GDP. Steenkamp emphasized that Google’s high-performance services will place South Africa at the forefront of the technological landscape, enabling more secure and reliable experiences for consumers.
This investment is part of Google’s broader commitment to spend $1 billion on enhancing Africa’s digital transformation. It aims to bolster infrastructure, support tech talent development, and stimulate the startup ecosystem essential for nurturing local entrepreneurs.
In tandem with this infrastructure initiative, Google South Africa has implemented training programs, such as Cloud OnBoard, Cloud Hero, and Google Hustle Academy. These courses focus on vital technological topics including generative AI, machine learning, and digital marketing, aimed at equipping learners and business owners with essential skills.
The introduction of Google Cloud will also benefit numerous ongoing initiatives for African startups, such as the Black Founders Fund Africa. Google for Startups Accelerator Africa has counseled 106 startups across 17 countries, fostering growth and generating over 2,800 direct jobs and more than $263 million in funding collectively.
Steenkamp concluded, stating that Google South Africa will help create a more equitable environment for tech entrepreneurs, extending benefits across sectors and aiding the broader expansion of Africa’s technology industry.
In summary, Google South Africa’s launch of its cloud region in Johannesburg marks a transformative milestone for local businesses and the continent’s technological landscape. With significant investments in infrastructure, training, and startup support, this initiative is poised to enhance economic growth and position South Africa as a leader in the African internet economy.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
