Cassava Technologies and Google Cloud launch Africa's first AI hub in Johannesburg
via NewsDay Zimbabwe6 min read
Liquid C2, a unit of Cassava Technologies, has partnered with Google Cloud to open Africa’s first Partner Experience Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa. This facility aims to accelerate the adoption of Artificial Intelligence and cloud solutions across the continent by providing a space for partners to develop, test, and deploy enterprise-grade applications for African markets. The initiative addresses the growing demand for digital transformation, driven by increased enterprise digitization, fintech expansion, and the need for data-driven operational efficiency. Cassava Technologies president and CEO Hardy Pemhiwa stated that the center will make AI more accessible, allowing customers to collaborate on real-time solution development. Strive Masiyiwa, founder and executive chairman of Cassava Technologies, emphasized the critical role of infrastructure investment in AI-led growth, highlighting plans for a large-scale AI data processing facility in Cape Town and further expansion in Kenya, Nigeria, Morocco, and Egypt. The center offers access to advanced tools like Google’s Gemini AI platform, supporting prototyping and scaling solutions in sectors such as financial services, healthcare, and retail. It also focuses on skills development and certification to address the shortage of cloud and AI specialists in Africa. This partnership is expected to unlock new economic activity, create jobs, and enhance the competitiveness of African firms, reinforcing Cassava's strategy to be
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Zimbabwe's hospitality sector is facing a significant funding deficit of US$30 million in preparation for the IATF 2029. In related news, Stanbic Bank has committed US$30,000 towards clean-up initiatives in Victoria Falls. Other developments include Fidelity unveiling Zimbabwe's first large-scale residential piped gas project and the ZMX reporting rising confidence with trades reaching US$1.28 million. Zimbabwe also commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory to enhance export competitiveness and delivered a historic milestone by hosting world-class Table Tennis regional championships. Political tensions at grasslands plots have led to violent attacks and forced evictions, while squatters continue to struggle with trauma from Gukurahundi and state-sponsored violence. The VFEX shows stability, though underlying value is masked, and there are concerns that Zanu PF may ambush Zimbabwe towards a referendum. Despite outdated equipment, Zimbabwe's para-athletes are achieving success, and junior water polo teams are poised for global recognition.
Must ReadZimbabwe has commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory, a move aimed at enhancing the country's export competitiveness in the honey market. This initiative is expected to support local honey producers in meeting international quality standards and accessing global markets.
Must ReadStanbic Bank has committed US$30,000 to support clean-up initiatives in Victoria Falls. Separately, former legislator Dubeko has filed a challenge with the Constitutional Court regarding President Mnangagwa's term extension. Other news includes government efforts to revive the cotton industry, rising confidence in the Zimbabwe Mercantile Exchange ZMX with trades reaching US$1.28 million, and a report on ART operations being affected by power outages and raw material shortages, leading to a 6% decline in exports and a 26% decline in paper division volumes in the third quarter to June 2022. Additionally, Zimbabwe has commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory to enhance export competitiveness.