Liquid C2, a business unit of Liquid Intelligent Technologies has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Google Cloud in Africa to further enhance cloud and cyber security offerings.
According to a statement by Liquid C2, this strategic partnership that seeks to tailor-make solutions that meet the needs of consumers represents a significant milestone as Google Cloud continues to invest in expanding its presence in Africa’s cloud and security solutions market.
The partnership aiming for digital transformation in Africa will focus on three primary solution areas.
Firstly, to assist customers in integrating and leveraging their data effectively through analytics and AI.
“This includes breaking down data silos and harnessing the full potential of their data,” the statement read in part.
“The application of the latest AI technologies is a key component in driving innovation, underpinned by a robust technology infrastructure.”
Secondly, to ensure that customers will be provided with cyber security expertise and solutions they need to protect their data and assets.
“This extends to wherever their operations are located and will enable customers to utilise the same security tools and practices that Google uses, including Chronicle and Mandiant solutions,” the statement read.
According to the Liquid C2 Pan-African cyber security 2022 report, the top three concerns around cyber security in Kenya were hacking and gaining unauthorised access to the organisation’s information systems and assets which stood at 72 per cent.
40 per cent were cyber attacks such as ransomware, and phishing while theft of personal information stood at 35 per cent.
“68 per cent of Kenyan businesses said email attacks like phishing and SPAM were the biggest threats in 2022,” the report read.
On cloud-based services, 62 per cent of enterprises were concerned about managing access to information, 60 per cent on data loss and recovery while 55 per cent were concerned about visibility and control of data stored.
On the other hand, the report showed that 72 per cent of companies use Microsoft Office 365 for cloud-based services, 62 per cent use Google and 60 per cent use online meetings such as Zoom, Skype and Teams.
The third priority centres on enhancing collaboration and creativity, by offering customers access to powerful collaboration tools, such as Google Workspace, enhanced by generative AI (Duet AI).
Liquid C2 said the objective is to empower teams of all sizes to work creatively and productively from any location, with security integrated into the design.
Liquid C2 CEO Oswald Jumira said the partnership will enable its enterprise, public and SME customers to harness the power of Google Cloud to enhance their data analytics and security postures as well as have access to the latest AI-driven tools.
“Our multi-cloud strategy compliments Cassava Technologies’ pan-African data centres and fibre broadband digital infrastructure all of which are key enablers of our vision of a digitally connected future that leaves no African behind,” he said.
On his part, Google Cloud VP of strategic pursuits Umesh Vemuri added that it will also build upon Google for Africa’s commitment to invest $1 billion (Sh152.14 billion).
“This strategic partnership aims to accelerate the digital enablement of businesses and governments in Africa with Google Cloud's leading data analytics and AI/ML solutions, communication and collaboration apps, generative AI, and security solutions,” Vemuri said.