Digital technologies contribute over US$16 billion to sub-saharan Africa’s economy – Google report

Digital technologies have emerged as a significant driver of economic activity in Sub-Saharan Africa, generating an impressive US$16 billion in 2023, as reported by Google in a recent study conducted by the independent research firm Public First. This report, entitled “The Digital Opportunity of Sub-Saharan Africa,” underscores the critical role that digital tools and infrastructure play in stimulating economic growth across the region.

With forecasted internet access for over half of Sub-Saharan Africa’s population in the upcoming decade, the findings suggest that enhanced connectivity could considerably boost the region’s GDP. Specifically, a mere 1 per cent increase in internet access has the potential to elevate the GDP by nearly 6 per cent, as highlighted in the report.

Moreover, the study indicates that each dollar invested in digital technologies within Sub-Saharan Africa could yield more than double that amount in economic value by the year 2030. In the year 2023 alone, various Google products and services, including Google Search, Google Ads, and Google Cloud, are reported to have positively impacted over a million small and medium-sized enterprises.

The Regional Director of Government Affairs and Public Policy at Google, Charles Murito, emphasised the importance of understanding how Google’s products influence the daily lives of African citizens. He expressed pride in the evidence provided by the report which reflects the tangible outcomes of Google’s ongoing efforts in the continent.

Furthermore, the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to augment the regional economy by more than US$30 billion has been acknowledged, with Google’s research centres based in Ghana and Kenya leading the charge. Murito elaborated on the application of Google AI in addressing pressing issues such as maternal health, childhood mortality, and food security.

“Leveraging Google AI as well as mobilephones we can be able to look at what challenges an expectant mother has and really solve childhood mortality,” he was quoted by citizen.digital.

He further noted the utility of AI in predicting natural disasters, like floods, and preventing agricultural threats such as locust infestations by identifying breeding zones early on.

Google’s investment in Sub-Saharan Africa continues with a commitment of US$1 billion made in 2021, aiming to enhance internet connectivity, support entrepreneurship, and foster innovation throughout the region. This steadfast dedication to developing digital infrastructure and technologies serves to underscore the transformative potential that advancements in technology hold for the economic landscape of Sub-Saharan Africa.