• Mobile technologies and services generated $240 billion in economic value in Africa in 2025, equivalent to 7.8% of the continent’s GDP.

• The sector supported around 13 million jobs and contributed $45 billion in public revenues, according to the GSMA.

• Mobile operators are expected to invest more than $76 billion in network infrastructure between 2024 and 2030 to expand 5G coverage and accelerate digital adoption.

Mobile technologies and services generated $240 billion in economic value across Africa in 2025, representing 7.8% of the continent’s gross domestic product, according to a report published by the GSMA on June 16. The sector also supported approximately 13 million jobs and contributed $45 billion in government revenues, underscoring its growing role in Africa’s economic development.

In its report, The Mobile Economy Africa 2026, the GSMA said the sector’s performance reflects a broader transformation of the mobile industry beyond traditional connectivity services. Mobile operators increasingly position themselves as digital transformation partners by integrating artificial intelligence, digital services and open application programming interfaces (APIs) designed for developers. As a result, operators are expanding their role within the digital economy and supporting innovation across multiple sectors. Despite significant progress in network deployment, digital adoption continues to lag behind connectivity availability.

The GSMA reported that approximately 63% of Africans who live within mobile broadband coverage areas do not use mobile internet services. The report identified device affordability, data costs and limited digital skills as the primary barriers to adoption. Consequently, affordability remains the biggest obstacle to achieving broader digital inclusion across the continent.

The report also highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence in the mobile sector. Operators increasingly use AI technologies to improve network performance, optimize customer experiences and develop new digital services.

However, the GSMA noted that existing AI models remain insufficiently adapted to Africa’s linguistic diversity and local market realities. As a result, the industry continues to face challenges in developing AI solutions tailored to the continent’s specific needs. Meanwhile, mobile operators are expected to invest more than $76 billion in network infrastructure between 2024 and 2030. The investments will support 5G expansion, improve service quality and accommodate rising digital usage across Africa.

The GSMA said these investments will play a critical role in converting existing connectivity into tangible economic gains. Moreover, the organization said stronger infrastructure investment will help narrow Africa’s digital adoption gap and unlock additional value from the continent’s expanding mobile ecosystem.

This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum