Google Unveils Subsea Cable Hubs, $9m Fund and AI Tools for African Students

Global tech giant, Google, has reaffirmed its commitment to Africa with the launch of new subsea cable connectivity hubs, a $9 million fund for universities and research institutions, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools for students. The company said the initiative is part of its long-standing investment in digital transformation and innovation across the continent.

As part of the plan, Google announced the creation of four strategic subsea cable hubs in the north, south, east, and west regions of Africa. The hubs, it explained, will establish new digital corridors within Africa and between Africa and the rest of the world. In addition, college students aged 18 and above in countries including Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zimbabwe will receive free one-year subscriptions to the Google AI Pro plan.

The $9 million funding, according to Google, will support African universities and research institutions over the coming year, with a focus on AI-driven innovation, youth-led learning, and skills development. The company stressed that these investments are designed to empower Africa’s next generation by expanding opportunities and building sustainable digital capacity.

Google’s Managing Director for Africa, Alex Okosi, said the initiatives underline the company’s belief in the continent’s growing digital economy. “Africa’s digital economy holds immense potential, and it will be driven by the talent and ingenuity of its next generation. Today’s announcements, spanning AI education, advanced tools for students, and expanded connectivity, are a unified investment in the upward trajectory of the continent,” he said. Okosi added that Google remains committed to expanding connectivity, increasing access to products and skills, and fostering African-led innovation.