Google Launches First African Cloud Region in Johannesburg, South Africa

Google has announced the operational readiness of its first cloud region in Africa, located in Johannesburg, South Africa. This significant move comes a year after the tech giant selected Johannesburg as its first site on the continent. The cloud region will enable users to deploy cloud resources from specific geographic locations or closer to customers, providing access to various services, including cloud storage, compute engine, and key management systems.

Google’s investment in the region is expected to play a crucial role in supporting digital transformation and economic growth in Africa. The Johannesburg cloud region is set to contribute over $2.1 billion to South Africa’s GDP and is projected to create more than 40,000 jobs by 2030, according to research commissioned by Google Cloud. The region’s operationalization is part of Google’s broader efforts to expand its global network, which now spans 40 regions and 121 zones across 200 countries and territories worldwide.

The company’s commitment to the African market is further underscored by its investments in infrastructure, training programs, and support for local businesses. The launch of the cloud region in Africa reflects Google’s recognition of the continent’s growing internet economy, which is predicted to reach $180 billion by 2025, accounting for 5.2% of the entire GDP.

The establishment of the cloud region in South Africa not only enhances Google’s presence in the region but also aligns with the company’s focus on providing high-performance, secure, and low-latency cloud services to businesses across the continent. This development is poised to accelerate the adoption of cloud technologies and drive innovation, ultimately contributing to the advancement of Africa’s digital ecosystem.