African Development Bank (AfDB) and Google have formalized their cooperation to drive digital transformation in Africa. The partnership was solidified with the signing of a Letter of Intent during the Global Africa Business Initiative at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The agreement signed by both parties set outs the intent to cooperate on refining talent and skill on the continent, extend and improve infrastructure and harness emerging technologies.
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AfDB has a track record of promoting digital evolution in Africa, having invested $1.9 billion in projects over the past decade. These initiatives have focused on the development of broadband infrastructure, the creation of favorable policy and regulatory environments, the cultivation of digital skills, and the support of innovative technology startups.
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of AfDB, emphasized the significant progress made in Africa’s telecommunications sector, stating, “Our journey from a 2% telephony penetration in 1998 to today’s era of 4G, 5G, and AI signifies immense progress. With 70% of sub-Saharan Africans under 30, our focus is on catalyzing businesses to create jobs and offer innovative solutions.”
Google has been a longstanding partner in Africa’s economic growth and digital transformation. In 2005, the tech giant invested in the Seacom cable, a major submarine telecommunications cable that has played a crucial role in expanding connectivity across the continent.
Under this new collaboration, Google will provide technical assistance to support entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises in digitizing their businesses. This assistance will include securing financing, mastering digital marketing, and advancing private sector development.
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Dr. James Manyika, Google’s Senior Vice President of Research, Technology & Society, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “With advanced technologies like AI, the most profound transformation is yet to come. Collaboration will be essential if Africa is to realize this opportunity, building for everyone and ensuring no one is left behind. We are excited to collaborate with the African Development Bank to work towards this shared commitment.”
The partnership between AfDB and Google is one among many it has made on the continent in the last year, with the tech giant keen to expand its footprint on the African continent.
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