Google powers Africa’s growth with new subsea cables, $9M in funding and free AI tools for students to boost digital skills and connectivity

With a sweeping new set of initiatives focused on digital infrastructure, AI education, and youth empowerment, Google powers the growth of Africa by expanding internet access, equipping the next generation with cutting-edge skills, and investing in the innovation capacity of the continent’s youth.

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In a major announcement, the tech giant unveiled four new subsea cable connectivity hubs, a $9 million funding boost for African universities, and free access to advanced AI tools for students across the continent.

This move forms part of Google’s long-term vision for Africa’s digital future. By building connectivity corridors across the north, south, east and west, the company is strengthening the continent’s digital backbone.

These strategic hubs will expand the existing Africa Connect infrastructure—joining the Equiano cable and Umoja fibre optic route—to create more resilient, high-speed internet access across Africa and beyond.

The announcement comes as part of Google’s continued commitment to drive Africa’s transformation.

Over the past two decades, Google has helped bring 100 million Africans online

The latest expansion will further integrate the continent into the global digital economy and support its growing demand for data capacity and innovation.

A standout feature of this new investment is the company’s offer of free one-year subscriptions to the Google AI Pro plan.

This initiative, aimed at college students aged 18 and above in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa and Egypt, provides access to powerful tools like Gemini 2.5 Pro and Deep Research.

These AI tools are designed to support academic success and creative problem-solving, giving students a competitive edge in the global digital space.

In parallel, Google is ramping up support for African education and research institutions.

With over $17 million already invested in AI-focused grants, curriculum development and training over the past four years, the tech firm is now injecting an additional $9 million.

These funds will enhance the AI capabilities of local universities, researchers and teachers, ensuring that African-led innovation is well-supported.

Speaking on the development, Alex Okosi, Google’s Managing Director for Africa, highlighted the synergy between infrastructure, access and education.

“Africa’s digital economy holds immense potential, and it will be driven by the talent and ingenuity of its next generation,” he said.

“These investments are about more than connectivity—they’re about enabling Africa’s youth to lead, innovate and thrive.”

Google powers Africa’s growth not just through infrastructure, but also by developing local talent.

So far, over 7 million Africans have been trained in digital skills, and Google aims to train 3 million more by 2030.

Meanwhile, the Google for Startups Accelerator has supported 153 African startups across 17 countries, helping them raise $300 million and create 3,500 jobs.

As the company deepens its roots across the continent, these latest actions show that Google powers Africa’s growth with long-term vision and meaningful partnerships.

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From connecting cities to empowering classrooms, the tech giant continues to lay the groundwork for a thriving digital future—led by Africans, for Africa.