eBusiness Weekly
Enacy Mapakame
Google’s senior vice president of research, technology & society, Dr James Manyika, has emphasised the transformative potential of collaboration for the region to realise its full potential.
Through collaboration, he said, the region can develop together and ensure no one is left behind during the fast paced digital transformation being witnessed across the world.
Dr Manyika’s statement have reflected a mutual commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.
He was speaking on the occasion of the formalisation of a cooperation between Google and the African Development Bank (AfDB) aimed at advancing digital transformation in Africa.
The parties signed a Letter of Intent during the Global Africa Business Initiative at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The partnership aims to leverage emerging technologies, expand and enhance infrastructure, and develop talent and skills in the region. The announcement comes at a crucial time for Africa, as the continent is seeing a rapid rise in connectivity and tech-savvy youth.
“With advanced technologies like AI, the most profound transformation is yet to come,” said Dr Manyika.
“Collaboration will be essential if Africa is to realise this opportunity, building for everyone and ensuring no one is left behind. We are excited to collaborate with the AfDB to work towards this shared commitment,” he added.
Both Google and the AfDB have strong track records in promoting digital development. The AfDB has invested $1,9 billion over the last decade in projects focused on broadband infrastructure, policy and regulatory environments, digital skills, and innovative technology startups.
Google, too, has been instrumental in Africa’s digital transformation, notably with its investment in the Seacom cable back in 2005, which significantly boosted internet access in the region.
As part of the newly-announced collaboration, Google will offer technical assistance to help entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) digitise their businesses.
The partnership will also focus on aiding these enterprises in securing financing, mastering digital marketing, and advancing private sector development.
According to AfDB president Dr Akinwunmi Adesina, the alliance comes at a moment of immense opportunity for Africa.
“Our journey from a 2 percent telephony penetration in 1998 to today’s era of 4G, 5G, and AI signifies immense progress,” he said.
“With 70 percent of sub-Saharan Africans under 30, our focus is on catalyzing businesses to create jobs and offer innovative solutions.”
