Google has joined a four-way partnership investing $100 million in a wholesale broadband infrastructure initiative designed to deliver fast, reliable internet to cities across Africa.
This effort builds on Google’s existing Project Link programme, first introduced in Kampala, Uganda in 2013 to give local internet service providers (ISPs) and mobile networks access to more efficient, shared infrastructure. Project Link was created to help lower the cost and complexity of providing high-quality connectivity so local operators can offer better services.
“Project Link goes beyond basic access; it enables local providers to offer new mobile data plans or high-speed internet for office buildings and universities, and support newer technologies as they come to market,” wrote Kai Wulff, Access Field Director at Google. “For Kampala, we hope it’s a foundation to support the needs of a new crop of entrepreneurs and innovators: the media-rich projects of a successful musician, fast connections for local hospitals, or new digital learning tools for students.”
Since its launch, Project Link has grown to more than 1,600 km of fiber networks across cities in Uganda and Ghana. Google has given this initiative a brand name, CSquared, and announced the addition of three new investors: ICT investment firms Convergence Partners and Mitsui, and the International Finance Corporation, a global development finance institution.
“Together with our new partners, we believe CSquared can roll out and operate affordable, high-speed, and reliable infrastructure to further expand internet access in Africa,” explained Marian Croak, Google’s vice president for access strategy and emerging markets.
CSquared will operate independently with headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, and will use the $100 million expansion fund to extend its network into additional African countries over time.
Expanding internet access across Africa represents a significant growth opportunity for technology companies that benefit from broader connectivity. Alongside wired infrastructure projects like CSquared, other firms are experimenting with alternative technologies—such as high-altitude platforms or drones—to reach underserved communities.
By deploying shared, wholesale fiber and supporting local ISPs, the partnership aims to reduce barriers to entry for last-mile providers, increase competition, and stimulate new digital services that rely on dependable, high-speed connections. Improved connectivity can support education, healthcare, commerce, media, and the growth of local tech ecosystems.
The CSquared model focuses on building robust, scalable wholesale networks that enable multiple service providers to offer affordable retail services. Wholesale infrastructure investments can lower costs for ISPs by spreading capital and operational expenses across many operators, making it viable for them to provide faster, more reliable services to homes, businesses, universities, and public institutions.
As the CSquared network expands, potential benefits include enhanced digital learning tools for students, better online services for hospitals, new opportunities for content creators and entrepreneurs, and broader economic participation through improved access to markets and information.
What are your thoughts on Google’s plan to improve broadband access in Africa? Share your perspective in the comments.