Google is accelerating its infrastructure drive in Africa as it plans four new hubs to anchor its subsea fibre-optic cables.
The facilities, which include landing stations and data centres, will directly connect the continent’s north, west, south, and east, said Google’s Africa managing director, Alex Okosi.
However, Google has not yet identified the cities that will host the hubs, so Nigeria’s role remains uncertain.
told Bloomberg TV, “The funding will come from Google,” but he refused to share cost details.
Instead, he emphasised that the projects represent “new investments” and confirmed that Google has already surpassed the $1 billion commitment it announced for Africa in 2021.
Tackling Internet Gaps
Meanwhile, Africa’s internet infrastructure continues to struggle with high costs, patchy coverage, and frequent disruptions whenever subsea cables break.
To address these challenges, Google will land its newest cables, Equiano and Umoja, later this year.
Furthermore, the company intends to complete the hubs within three years.
By doing so, Okosi argued, Google can help telecoms groups such as MTN and Vodacom lower broadband prices for customers.
Rising Digital Competition
At the same time, competition for Africa’s digital future is intensifying.
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The continent, which has the world’s youngest and fastest-growing population, is fuelling demand for both connectivity and advanced technologies like artificial intelligence.
In response, Microsoft has invested $1 billion in a geothermal-powered data centre in Kenya and allocated nearly $300 million to expand AI capacity in South Africa.
Looking ahead, Okosi positioned Google’s strategy as opportunity-driven.
“For us, the key is to invest in Africa so we can unlock the AI opportunity,” he said.
Thus, global tech giants now treat Africa not as a side market but as a central arena for digital growth and innovation.
