Google has announced plans to build four major digital infrastructure hubs across Africa, a move set to transform internet connectivity on the continent.
The hubs, which will feature landing stations and data centres, are designed to link Google’s latest subsea fibre-optic cables to Africa’s north, west, south, and east coasts. This investment is fully financed by Google and marks a significant step beyond the company’s original $1 billion Africa commitment for 2021–2026.
Alex Okosi, Google’s managing director for Africa, confirmed the development in an interview with Bloomberg TV, noting that the company has already exceeded its initial pledge.
The new infrastructure is expected to enhance the reliability and affordability of internet access in Africa, where connectivity challenges persist due to high costs and frequent disruptions when undersea cables are damaged. Google’s two newest subsea cables Equiano and Umoja, are scheduled to land on African shores this year, with the hubs, expected to be operational within the next three years. Analysts believe this could reduce costs for regional telecom operators such as MTN Group and Vodacom, ultimately lowering broadband prices for millions of consumers.
The project reflects a broader push by global tech companies to stake their claim in Africa’s fast-growing digital economy. Microsoft, for example, is developing a $1 billion geothermal-powered data centre in Kenya and expanding its AI infrastructure in South Africa with a $300 million investment.
“For us, it is about ensuring Africa is well-positioned to seize the AI opportunity,” Okosi said.
With its young and rapidly expanding population, Africa is becoming the next big battleground for digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence investment and Google’s new hubs signal that the race is only accelerating.