Mobile connectivity is rapidly transforming life across Africa, unlocking access to business, education, healthcare, and financial services in countries such as Nigeria, South Africa, and Egypt. According to a recent report by The African Exponent, mobile technology is now a central part of everyday life for millions, with widespread ownership of mobile phones reshaping how people work, communicate, and access services.
By 2025, Africa recorded over 1 billion active SIM cards, with many countries surpassing 100 percent penetration due to the common practice of owning multiple SIMs. The report ranked countries based on mobile device usage, SIM coverage per 100 people, and ownership of feature phones and smartphones. Despite modest average incomes in many regions, mobile phone ownership has become nearly universal in nations like Gabon, Eswatini, and Côte d’Ivoire, highlighting the essential role of mobile technology in these societies.
Nigeria, with a population exceeding 200 million, leads the continent in the total number of mobile users, with an 85 percent penetration rate. Smartphone usage in Nigeria is expected to reach 140 million by 2025, driven by an expanding digital economy that sees phones as essential tools for communication, shopping, and entertainment.
South Africa reports over 118 million mobile connections, reflecting a penetration rate of 195 percent. This is attributed to multiple SIM usage, especially in urban areas. The country has a well-developed mobile infrastructure, offering 4G widely and rolling out 5G technology, with affordable smartphones and competitive data plans contributing to its leadership in digital adoption.
In Egypt, more than 110 million mobile connections are active, covering nearly 94 percent of the population. The government’s push toward digital transformation and smart cities has accelerated mobile access, especially among young users, who are increasingly embracing smartphones for education and communication.
Kenya, with about 66 million mobile connections and a penetration rate of 118 percent, is recognized for pioneering mobile money platforms like M-Pesa. Mobile phones in Kenya are widely used for financial transactions, healthcare, and education. The competitive telecom market has helped maintain affordable prices, promoting greater access.
Ethiopia has seen rapid growth in its mobile sector, with around 77 million users and a 60 percent penetration rate. Following long-term restrictions in the telecom sector, recent reforms have encouraged new entrants and investments. Mobile phones are now crucial tools for accessing financial services and agricultural information.
In Morocco, over 95 percent of adults own a mobile phone, and penetration has exceeded 137 percent due to multi-SIM ownership. The country’s investment in 4G and 5G infrastructure has boosted mobile usage across both urban and rural areas. Government efforts to promote digital literacy have also helped increase smartphone adoption.
Gabon boasts one of the highest mobile ownership rates on the continent, with nearly 96 percent of its population using mobile devices. Supported by oil revenues, Gabon has developed strong telecom infrastructure that ensures coverage even in rural regions.
Côte d’Ivoire matches this trend, with 94 percent mobile ownership and a thriving mobile money ecosystem. Multiple telecom operators have helped reduce costs and increase accessibility, while government policies continue to support wider coverage and digital inclusion.
Mauritius, with a highly developed telecom sector, reports over 94 percent mobile ownership and more than 120 percent penetration due to multiple SIM usage. Its small size and economic stability have enabled fast integration of digital technologies, making mobile internet widely available.
Eswatini, despite a small population of just over one million, has also achieved mobile penetration above 100 percent. With nearly universal ownership, mobile phones are a key tool for accessing digital financial services. Government efforts to expand rural network coverage have helped ensure that all regions are connected.
These developments reflect a continent-wide shift toward mobile-led transformation, with mobile technology now at the heart of Africa’s digital growth.
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