Google has announced plans to build the first fiber optic route connecting Africa with Australia, a project known as the “Umoja cable route.” This undersea cable will run from Kenya to Australia, passing through several African countries along the way. The goal is to enhance connectivity infrastructure in Africa and expand Google’s presence on the continent.
Collaborating with Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Google mapped out the most efficient route for the cable, ensuring that major African cities such as Nairobi, Kampala, and Lusaka will have improved access to the global network. This project is expected to significantly boost internet connectivity in Africa, with Google estimating that 300 million people in the region will connect to the internet over the next five years.
While the land portion of the project has been completed, the most challenging phase lies ahead, as engineers prepare to lay the cable across the Indian Ocean to reach Australia. This complex task does not have a confirmed timeline for completion yet.
In addition to the Umoja cable project, Google plans to collaborate with the Kenyan government on various initiatives, including cybersecurity, data-driven innovation, digital skills development, and using artificial intelligence for societal benefits. For instance, the Department of Immigration and Citizen Services is considering Google Cloud’s CyberShield solution for its eCitizen platform.
Google has been actively expanding its presence in Africa since 2007, when it opened its first office in Nairobi. Over the years, the tech giant has partnered with governments in various African countries on digital projects. In 2021, Google committed to investing $1 billion in Africa over five years, focusing on improving connectivity and providing seed funding for startups. To date, Google has invested over $900 million in the region and aims to fulfill its pledge by 2026.
Apart from the Umoja cable project, Google has also invested in other undersea cable projects, such as Equiano, which connects Portugal with South Africa. Equiano, Google’s third private international cable, extends from Western Europe along the west coast of Africa, with branching units to expand connectivity to other African nations. This investment in Equiano is part of Google’s broader strategy to enhance global connectivity and strengthen its presence in emerging markets.
Overall, Google’s initiative to build the Umoja cable route signals its commitment to expanding internet access and connectivity in Africa. By investing in infrastructure projects like this, Google aims to leverage the untapped potential of emerging markets and further solidify its position on the continent.
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https://www.techspot.com/news/103143-google-building-first-fiber-optic-cable-connecting-africa.html
