source: https://www.linkedin.com/events/googleclouddatacentrelaunch7298267366554034178/about/
CloudSmiths, a Dynamic Technologies group company and a proud Google partner, is celebrating the opening of the Google Johannesburg Cloud Region that is allowing organisations across the continent to leverage the full potential of Google’s cloud technologies. The official launch event, which will be attended by CloudSmiths representatives, will take place on 19 March 2025.
At the cloud region launch event, Google Cloud executives, thought leaders and dignitaries will share insights about the new cloud region, its potential benefits and the vast array of opportunities it presents for digital transformation, skill development, and innovation.
Patrick Eriksen, Head of Marketing at CloudSmiths, says the new cloud region is a boon for African business. “The primary benefits of a dedicated cloud region are improved data sovereignty and reduced latency. With the Johannesburg cloud region, businesses can store and process their data locally, ensuring compliance with regional regulations while benefiting from faster access to cloud services.”
CloudSmiths and Google have been partners since 2022 when CloudSmiths merged with DotModus, which was Google’s first cloud partner in South Africa and among the earliest on the continent. Eriksen explains, “DotModus was working with Google before Google Cloud even had a formal offering, back when companies were still buying Google Search Appliances and physically installing them in their own server rooms. Google Cloud has always been our cloud of choice. The ease of their services, their innovative approach and their commitment to pushing boundaries align with ours. Some of the best solutions we’ve built, whether in data analytics, machine learning or cloud-native applications, have been powered by Google Cloud.”
According to Google, Africa’s internet economy is projected to account for 5.2% of the continent’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2025. Google has committed R18.6 billion ($1 billion) to boost the continent’s digital transformation. This includes infrastructure development, nurturing the growing tech talent pool and enabling a vibrant startup ecosystem.
Opening the new cloud region and investing heavily in the continent’s digital transformation are significant actions by Google, and Eriksen explains why. “Google Cloud technology has been available in Africa for over a decade so the new region doesn't necessarily bring anything new, but it’s a statement of investment in the continent’s digital future. Africa is often overlooked when it comes to the tech industry and this move helps bridge that gap. It’s a major step toward strengthening Africa’s digital economy.”
The opening will be in-person and online. To register for the online event, click here