Google Cloud has launched its first cloud region in Johannesburg, South Africa, marking a significant step towards promoting digital transformation in Africa.

In a major step toward assisting and advancing digital transformation in Africa, Google Cloud has declared that its first cloud region on the continent, located in Johannesburg, South Africa, is now online. The release details how companies throughout the continent may now access AWS's high-performance, secure, and low-latency cloud services. By 2025, Google projects that Africa's internet economy will have grown to $180 billion or 5.2% of the continents total GDP. Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced in 2021 that the business will invest $1 billion over a five-year period to help the continent's digital transformation, demonstrating his eagerness to get in on the action early.

With this expansion, Google Cloud's network now includes 200 nations and territories globally, spanning 40 regions and 121 zones.

Like all other Google Cloud regions, the new South Africa area is connected to the company's worldwide network by high-capacity fiber optic connections, which also include a brand-new Equiano underwater cable system. Google has made additional investments in Africa, such as training initiatives, business help, and Google Cloud Credits for qualified entrepreneurs.

With the new Bulikula and Halaihai projects aiming at connecting island nations in the Central Pacific and the Humboldt project connecting South America with Asia-Pacific via undersea cables, Google Cloud also appears to be expanding its services internationally.