SmallBusinessNewz

Google has added new Google Maps domains for 30 countries in Africa. This means that users in these countries will be able to use Google Maps to find local businesses. In the U.S. and other places where such a feature has been available, it has been heavily used by consumers for this reason, and it should open up a great deal of opportunity for these countries.

"This could be a burger place in Lagos, a garage in Kampala, a hairdresser in Accra or an airport shuttle in Dakar," says Google. "Any business anywhere can add their own business listing for free via the Google Maps Local Business Centre. Businesses can also improve their websites and help customers locate them by installing the Maps API."

"You know your local area better than we do, which is why Map Maker is on offer. With Map Maker, any user can create or edit map data, ranging from schools to local businesses, national parks to taxi stops," the company adds. "If you know your local area, or you've seen something that's missing, take up the opportunity to get mapping! As we've pointed out before, maps are also invaluable for governments, NGOs, universities and entrepreneurs, who can visualise, plan and market the areas and projects that they work on."

More details about Google Maps in Africa can be found here, in both English and in French.