• Vodacom signed a multi-year partnership with Google Cloud to migrate and unify its critical data infrastructure.
• The operator will use BigQuery and Google Cloud’s advanced AI tools to build a “single source of truth” and support complex AI models.
• Google Cloud aims to expand African adoption of its AI technologies, echoing Microsoft’s recent strategy with MTN.

African telecom operators continue to strengthen their digital transformation strategies by signing agreements with major U.S. technology companies. After MTN’s partnership with Microsoft, Vodacom has turned to another Silicon Valley giant.

Vodacom Group announced on Tuesday, Nov. 25, a multi-year partnership with Google Cloud to modernize its data infrastructure and support its artificial intelligence ambitions. The agreement will migrate and unify the operator’s critical data onto Google’s cloud infrastructure.

Vodacom plans to use BigQuery and Google Cloud’s advanced solutions to create a “single source of truth” that consolidates all internal information. The company expects this centralization to improve data governance, strengthen operational efficiency and provide a technical foundation for running increasingly complex AI models.

“This collaboration goes beyond a simple technological upgrade; it represents a deep commitment to Africa’s digital revolution. […] Integrating Google Cloud’s data and AI solutions into our business will modernize our infrastructure and fundamentally change our operational paradigm,” Vodacom CEO Shameel Joosub said.

Google Cloud views the agreement as part of a broader strategy to accelerate adoption of its technologies in Africa by partnering with operators with strong regional footprints. By collaborating with Vodacom, Google aims to ease access to advanced AI tools for millions of consumers and businesses across the continent.

The deal also mirrors Microsoft’s recent agreement with MTN, one of Vodacom’s main competitors in several African markets, and highlights intensifying competition among global cloud providers seeking growth in the region.

This article was initially published in French by Adoni Conrad Quenum

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum