Strive Masiyiwa Attends Africa’s First Google Cloud Summit as Ramaphosa Unveils AI Vision

Strive Masiyiwa Attends Africa’s First Google Cloud Summit as Ramaphosa Unveils AI Vision – Zimbabwean billionaire and Econet founder Strive Masiyiwa was among the prominent technology leaders who attended Africa’s first Google Cloud Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, where President Cyril Ramaphosa officially opened the landmark event.

Held at the Sandton Convention Centre, the summit focused on accelerating Africa’s digital transformation through artificial intelligence (AI).

In his keynote address, President Ramaphosa called on African nations to take the lead in shaping the continent’s technological future rather than simply adopting innovations developed elsewhere.

ALSO READ: World’s Smallest Penis Claimant Offered Free US$20,000 Enhancement Procedure by Beverly Hills Doctor

During the summit, Google announced five major AI-focused initiatives aimed at boosting Africa’s digital economy.

These include the establishment of an applied AI laboratory, a new Digital Exchange in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, expanded research funding, increased support for technology start-ups, and digital skills development programmes.

The initiatives form part of Google’s US$1 billion commitment to supporting Africa’s digital growth. South African authorities welcomed the investment, saying it is expected to create jobs, empower small businesses, and contribute towards the country’s ambitious R2 trillion investment target by 2030.

Masiyiwa, one of Africa’s most influential technology entrepreneurs, was seen alongside Google’s Senior Vice President James Manyika and President Ramaphosa during the opening of the 2026 Google Cloud Summit.