Countries around the world have focused on the rollout of 5G mobile networks in the past years. In Africa, a few countries have also jumped on the bandwagon, such as South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria. A fundamental purpose of connectivity is to serve some other purposes that end users require to go about their day and operations. Communications and connectivity have become fundamental drivers of economic growth and empowering the social lives of our societies.
Africa, the world’s second largest continent with 16% of the global population will still heavily rely on 3G and 4G mobile networks for some time to come. ABI Research forecasts about 95% of Africa’s mobile subscribers will still be on 4G, 3G, and even 2G connections by 2026. The deployment of 5G mobile networks will need to come down in cost and demonstrate justifiable returns for African mobile networks. 5G mobile networks aside, African Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) would be better served by optimizing their 4G mobile networks, addressing the digital divide then pivoting into 5G deployment. The Mobile Economy Sub-Saharan Africa report from the GSM Association (GSMA) forecasts 3% penetration for 5G connections by 2025.
This whitepaper reviews several aspects of the future of broadband in Africa:
- 3G and 4G status and coverage
- 5G outlook
- The role of satellite communications
- Recommendations and takeaways
Download this whitepaper to learn more.
