Cassava Technologies, a global technology leader rooted in Africa, has announced a landmark collaboration with Google to expand access to advanced artificial intelligence across the continent through an innovative partnership focused on affordability and connectivity. The Cassava Technologies Google AI partnership introduces two transformative initiatives designed to overcome the twin barriers of cost and data consumption—key obstacles limiting AI adoption for African consumers, businesses, and institutions.
At the heart of the collaboration is a six-month extended trial of Google’s premium AI Plus plan, which unlocks full access to Gemini’s most powerful models, including Gemini 2.5 Pro. This trial grants users enhanced capabilities such as deep research functions, video generation via Veo 3.1 Fast, expanded image creation limits using Nano Banana, and seamless integration of Gemini into Gmail and Docs for smarter writing and productivity. The package also includes 200 GB of cloud storage and access to Flow, Google’s generative video tool for filmmaking, as well as NotebookLM for advanced note-taking and insight extraction.
Complementing this, Cassava will enable data-free access to the Gemini app across its extensive network of technology service providers. By removing mobile data costs for eligible users, the initiative ensures that internet connectivity constraints no longer stand in the way of experiencing cutting-edge AI tools—particularly critical in regions where data remains expensive relative to average incomes.
Hardy Pemhiwa, President & Group CEO of Cassava Technologies, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership: “We are excited to partner with Google to democratize access to digital solutions that empower individuals and businesses. This collaboration underscores our shared vision to make AI more inclusive, accessible, and impactful across Africa’s rapidly digitizing economies. It is about creating a smarter, more connected, and competitive Africa.”
Josh Woodward, VP of Google Labs, Gemini, and AI Studio, echoed this sentiment: “Our goal is to make Gemini valuable for everyone. By teaming up with Cassava, we are eliminating significant barriers to AI adoption in Africa—specifically cost and connectivity. This collaboration will bring the full potential of Gemini to millions of people, empowering them to learn, build, and create without worrying about data consumption.”
The rollout leverages Cassava’s deep regional footprint and partnerships with leading telecoms, ISPs, and digital platforms across Africa—enabling scalable delivery of AI tools to students, entrepreneurs, educators, developers, and small enterprises. For many, this represents their first real opportunity to interact with high-end generative AI features previously out of reach due to subscription costs or bandwidth limitations.
This initiative arrives at a pivotal moment. As AI becomes a core driver of innovation, economic transformation, and workforce readiness, equitable access is essential to prevent widening digital divides. With over 70% of Africa’s population under the age of 30, equipping young Africans with AI literacy and tools today can catalyze tomorrow’s breakthroughs in healthcare, agriculture, education, and creative industries.
The Cassava Technologies Google AI partnership builds on Cassava’s broader mission to drive digital inclusion through strategic collaborations that bring world-class technologies to African markets. It follows a series of investments in data centers, cloud infrastructure, and AI readiness programs aimed at positioning Africa not just as a consumer of AI, but as a creator and innovator within the global ecosystem.
As governments, startups, and institutions increasingly adopt AI to solve local challenges, this partnership sets a precedent: that technological equity is not only possible—but necessary—for sustainable, inclusive growth.
By making Gemini more accessible, affordable, and relevant to African users, Cassava and Google are not just expanding usage—they’re expanding possibility.
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