Cassava and Google come together to accelerate AI adoption in Africa

Written by Vriti Goshi

Pan-African technology group Cassava Technologies has partnered with Google to make Google’s cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) platform, Gemini, more widely accessible across the African continent.

This groundbreaking collaboration combines Cassava’s extensive network of technology service providers with Google’s cutting-edge AI solutions to democratize access to digital intelligence tools and enable millions of Africans to benefit from next-generation AI capabilities in learning, business, and creative innovation.

Under this partnership, two core initiatives have been introduced to remove key barriers to cost and data accessibility for AI adoption across Africa. Google offers a 6-month extended trial of the Google AI Plus plan. This gives users expanded access to Gemini’s most powerful models including Gemini 2.5 Pro, 200 GB of cloud storage, video generation with Veo 3.1 Fast, enhanced Gemini integration into Gmail and Docs for productivity, and more.

Additionally, Cassava Technologies leverages its continent-wide partner network to Data-free access to Gemini appsallowing targeted users to utilize the platform without consuming mobile data. The initiative aims to expand the reach of AI to diverse communities and sectors, bridge the digital divide, and foster inclusive innovation.

“We are proud to partner with Google to democratize access to digital solutions that empower people and businesses. This partnership underscores our shared vision to make AI more inclusive, accessible, and impactful across Africa’s rapidly digitizing economies. This is shaping a smarter, more connected, and more competitive Africa.” Hadi Pemuhiwa, President and Group CEO, Cassava Technologies

“Our goal is to make Gemini work for everyone. By partnering with Cassava, we are removing major barriers to AI adoption across Africa, especially cost and connectivity. This collaboration should help bring the full potential of Gemini to millions of people, enabling them to learn, build and create without worrying about data consumption,” he added. Josh Woodward, Vice President, Google Labs, Gemini, AI Studio.

Through this initiative, individuals, businesses, and institutions across Africa will have access to Gemini’s premium features, including advanced research tools, AI-assisted video creation, higher limits for image generation, and smarter productivity through Google Workspace applications. These features are designed to help businesses optimize their operations, educators to enhance digital learning, and creators to unlock new forms of expression.