South Africa has joined Google’s global cloud network with a new R2.5 billion hub. This project is expected to boost the GDP by $2.1 billion and create over 40,000 jobs by 2030. Training programs for young entrepreneurs will enhance local skills, while Google’s support for startups is set to facilitate substantial growth in Africa’s tech sector.
South Africa has officially become a part of Google’s global cloud network with the unveiling of a new R2.5 billion hub, marking the first project of its kind in Africa. This development integrates South Africa into Google Cloud’s extensive network, which comprises 40 regions and 121 zones, providing cloud services to over 200 countries and territories globally.
Ferdinand Steenkamp, co-founder of Tregter, stated that the accessibility of Google Cloud services will significantly contribute to South Africa’s economy, with an estimated $2.1 billion boost to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the creation of over 40,000 jobs by 2030. The African internet economy is projected to reach $180 billion by 2025, representing 5.2% of the continent’s GDP.
Google South Africa has initiated various training programs, such as Cloud OnBoard, Cloud Hero, and Google Hustle Academy, aimed at entrepreneurs and learners. These programs focus on essential topics including generative AI, machine learning, application modernization, data analytics, and digital marketing, thereby fostering a skilled workforce.
Additionally, the launch of Google Cloud is set to enhance support for African startups through initiatives like the Black Founders Fund Africa and Google for Startups Accelerator Africa. These initiatives have already supported 106 startups across 17 African countries, resulting in over $263 million in funding and the creation of more than 2,800 jobs.
In conclusion, Google’s presence in South Africa represents a substantial opportunity for the country’s technological landscape. As Steenkamp mentioned, it is poised to create a more equitable environment for tech entrepreneurs and offer considerable advantages beyond the technology sector, thereby contributing to the overall growth of Africa’s tech ecosystem.
The establishment of Google Cloud’s hub in South Africa signifies a critical advancement in the nation’s technological infrastructure. This initiative is expected to bolster the economy significantly by creating numerous job opportunities and supporting the burgeoning internet economy in Africa, alongside facilitating extensive training programs for future leaders in technology.
Original Source: www.bizcommunity.com
