Source: Google Cloud

Today, Google announced the Johannesburg cloud region in South Africa is ready for customer use. Businesses of all sizes across the continent now have access to high-performance, secure, and low-latency cloud services. They will host a launch event in Johannesburg later this year to celebrate the opening of the cloud region and showcase the transformative potential it holds for businesses across the continent.

Africa's internet economy is estimated to reach $180 billion by 2025, accounting for 5.2% of the continent’s gross domestic product (GDP). Google alone has committed $1 billion to boost Africa’s digital transformation, recognizing that key drivers of the continent’s growth will include investing in infrastructure, nurturing the growing tech talent pool, and enabling a vibrant startup ecosystem.

The Google Cloud region in Johannesburg will accelerate the African tech ecosystem, providing organizations with the resources they need to scale, innovate, and compete in the global marketplace. They are excited to partner with organizations across the continent and help them discover the advantages of digital transformation.

With the addition of the Johannesburg region, Their network now totals 40 cloud regions and 121 zones, which together deliver Google Cloud services to over 200 countries and territories worldwide. Like all Google Cloud regions, the Johannesburg region is connected to Google’s secure network, comprising a system of high-capacity fiber optic cables under land and sea around the world. This includes the recently completed Equiano subsea cable system that connects Portugal with Togo, Nigeria, Namibia, South Africa, and St. Helena.

Beyond infrastructure and services, They committed to providing people and businesses with enablement and training on the latest cloud technologies and sustainable business practices. Learners and business owners have participated in training programs like Cloud OnBoard, Cloud Hero, and Google Hustle Academy, which cover technology topics like generative AI (gen AI), machine learning (ML), application and infrastructure modernization, data and analytics, and digital marketing.

They also operate numerous programs for African startups, including Black Founders Fund Africa and Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, which has supported 106 startups across 17 African countries — startups that have collectively raised over $263 million in funding and created over 2,800 direct jobs. In the October 2023 cohort of their AI First Accelerator Program, 11 startups will embark on a 10-week journey to scale their AI solutions for Africa and globally, leverage up to $350,000 in Google Cloud Credits, and gain access to Google's AI expertise and support.

The launch of the Johannesburg region has been met with enthusiasm by organizations, partners, and existing Google Cloud customers across Africa.

African countries are poised to transform their economies and quality of life with technology, and Google Cloud is ready to provide the infrastructure to support their rise to become global commercial and technology leaders. Together with their rich partner ecosystem, They are delivering a new way to cloud that empowers African organizations to build, use, and succeed with enterprise-ready gen AI.

Incentro is a premier Google Cloud partner in the region, poised to transform the way organizations work with cloud technology and, its unparalleled expertise. As a trusted ally in digital transformation, we bring a wealth of knowledge and top-notch capabilities to the table, ensuring your businesses can harness the full potential of Google Cloud services. 

Talk to us today!