In a timely move amidst recent internet outages in Kenya and East Africa that culminated in growing calls for more fiber cables, Google has announced a significant investment in the region’s digital infrastructure. The tech giant unveiled “Umoja,” a new fiber optic cable set to directly connect Africa with Australia, bolstering connectivity and accelerating economic growth across the continent.
The Umoja cable, anchored in Kenya, will traverse through multiple African countries, namely Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, before reaching Australia. This terrestrial path was developed in collaboration with Liquid Technologies, a major player in Kenyan and African telecommunications in general. The partnership aims to create a highly scalable route through Africa, offering access points for other countries to tap into the network.
This development is particularly crucial for Kenya and East Africa, which recently experienced a major internet disruption when the SEAMCOM and EASSy submarine cables were damaged. Umoja, meaning “unity” in Swahili, joins Google’s Equiano cable in an initiative called Africa Connect, ensuring a more resilient network for a region prone to such outages.
“I am delighted to welcome Google’s investment in digital connectivity, marking a historic milestone for Kenya, Africa, and Australia,” said President Ruto. “The new intercontinental fiber optic route will significantly enhance our global and regional digital infrastructure. This initiative is crucial in ensuring the redundancy and resilience of our region’s connectivity to the rest of the world, especially in light of recent disruptions caused by cuts to sub-sea cables.”
Beyond connectivity, Google is deepening its collaboration with Kenya through a Statement of Collaboration with the Ministry of Information Communications and The Digital Economy. This partnership will focus on cybersecurity, data-driven innovation, digital upskilling, and responsible AI deployment. Notably, Google Cloud and Kenya are exploring the use of CyberShield to enhance the security of the eCitizen platform, a vital government service portal.
This investment aligns with Google’s broader commitment to Africa’s digital transformation. Since 2007, the company has invested over $900 million in the region, aiming to reach $1 billion by 2026. This has led to significant economic activity, estimated at over $30 billion between 2021 and 2023.
Umoja, along with initiatives like the Google Hustle Academy, which has supported over 3,500 small businesses in Kenya, exemplifies Google’s dedication to fostering innovation and economic growth in Africa. By strengthening digital infrastructure and promoting cybersecurity, Google is not only helping Kenya recover from recent outages but also paving the way for a more digitally inclusive and prosperous future.
With the potential of Africa’s internet economy estimated to reach $180 billion by 2025, Google’s investments are timely and strategic. By partnering with local players like Liquid Technologies, the company is ensuring that this growth is sustainable and benefits all stakeholders. As Kenya and the rest of Africa embrace this digital revolution, Umoja represents a beacon of hope, promising a more connected, resilient, and prosperous future.
