Google to Build Four Major Infrastructure Hubs in Africa to Power New Subsea Cables and Boost Internet Access
Story: written by Uzuh Rita September 18,2025
Google has unveiled plans to establish four new digital infrastructure hubs across Africa to support its latest subsea fibre-optic cables, aimed at strengthening internet connectivity across the continent. The announcement was made by Alex Okosi, Google’s Managing Director for Africa, during an interview with Bloomberg TV.
The hubs—consisting of key facilities such as cable landing stations and data centers—will connect to Africa’s north, west, south, and east regions, forming a crucial backbone for faster and more reliable internet services.
While Google has not yet revealed the host cities for these hubs, it remains uncertain if Nigeria will be included in the rollout. Okosi noted that the project will be financed directly by Google, adding that the company has already surpassed its $1 billion Africa investment pledge made in 2021.
The development comes as Google prepares to land its two newest subsea cables—Equiano and Umoja—on the African continent this year. The hubs are expected to be completed within the next three years and could significantly lower broadband costs for telecom operators such as MTN Group and Vodacom Group, enabling cheaper and more reliable internet access for millions of users.
Africa, home to the world’s fastest-growing and youngest population, continues to face patchy and costly internet services, often disrupted by cable damage. By expanding its digital footprint, Google aims to close the connectivity gap while also positioning Africa to take advantage of the growing demand for artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.
Tech giants are also racing to invest in Africa’s digital economy. Microsoft recently announced a $1 billion geothermal-powered data center in Kenya and committed an additional $300 million to expand its AI infrastructure in South Africa.
“For us, it’s about ensuring Africa is ready for the AI revolution,” Okosi said. “We are investing to make sure that this opportunity is realized.”
