Ehimuan Exits Google After 12yrs

Emma Okonji

Google’s pioneering West Africa Director, Dr. Juliet Ehimuan, who is one of the most prominent African women in tech and an instrumental leader in Google’s regional growth, has announced her departure from the company, after 12 years of service.

Ehimuan announced her departure via LinkedIn at the weekend, stating her intent to take on a broader role within the regional tech landscape. She unveiled plans to collaborate with corporate executives, global investors, African governments and startup founders to drive growth, excellence and digital transformation within the African tech ecosystem and the broader business landscape.

Ehimuan’s departure marks a significant transition for Google in Africa. During her tenure, first as Country Director for Nigeria and then Director for West Africa, Ehimuan led her team in driving transformative digital initiatives. From the successful Get Nigeria Businesses Online project, to strategic partnerships and deployment and localisation of key products like Google Maps, Streetview, and YouTube.ng; her leadership has enabled a profound and far-reaching impact on the region’s tech ecosystem.

One of the pivotal moments under her stewardship was the inaugural Google for Africa event in Lagos in 2012, where Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced the landmark commitment to train 10 million Africans in digital skills, 100,000 developers in-depth web and mobile development skills, and a Google for Startups accelerator for Africa to support African tech entrepreneurs. These initiatives underline Ehimuan’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of technology leaders in Africa.

Over the last 12 years, the continent has become increasingly important to Google’s global strategy and a destination for significant investment. Google has committed increasing sums to growing Africa’s tech ecosystem, including $50 million for growth-stage start ups through the Africa investment Fund in early 2020 and $1 billion toward Africa’s digital transformation in 2021.