This archive report was first published on 7 October 2021.
On October 7, 2021, Google announced plans to invest $1 billion in accelerating Africa's digital transformation over the next five years.
As part of this investment, Google has partnered with Safaricom Plc to provide affordable Android devices to consumers through a financing plan. This initiative aims to help first-time smartphone users in Kenya gain access to quality, affordable Android smartphones.
The partnership will later be expanded across Africa, with other partners including Airtel, MKOPA, MTN, Orange, Transsion Holdings, and Vodacom.
Google's $1 billion investment will also focus on enabling fast, affordable internet access for more Africans, building helpful products, supporting entrepreneurship and small business, and helping nonprofits to improve lives across the continent.
Additionally, Google will invest in building the Equiano sub-sea cable, which will run through South Africa, Namibia, Nigeria, and St Helena, connecting the continent with Europe.
Google will also expand the Plus Codes, a free and open-source addressing system, to Kenya and South Africa after its launch in The Gambia.
Furthermore, the investment will support the Black Founders Fund by providing cash awards and hands-on support to black-led startups in Africa.
