SUB-SAHARAN Africa’s mobile connectivity landscape is set for unprecedented growth, with subscriptions projected to soar from 950 million in 2023 to 1.2 billion by 2030, according to the latest Ericsson Mobility Report. This represents an annual growth rate of 4 percent, fuelled by the region’s youthful population and increasing demand for innovative digital services.
5G revolution sweeps sub-Saharan Africa
The report highlights a remarkable surge in 5G adoption, with subscriptions expected to skyrocket from 11 million in 2023 to 420 million by 2030—a staggering annual growth rate of 59 percent. By the end of the decade, 5G is anticipated to account for 33 percent of all mobile subscriptions in the region.
‘Sub-Saharan Africa will make significant strides in connectivity, digital transformation, and economic development,’ said Ante Mihovilovic, Ericsson’s Vice President and Head of Networks for the Middle East and Africa. ‘The rapid shift toward 5G will not only enhance connectivity but also drive sustainable growth and create new opportunities.’
5G technology is poised to be a game-changer, supporting advanced applications such as mobile money, digital healthcare, smart cities, and the Internet of Things (IoT). This transformation will bridge digital divides and accelerate economic growth across the continent.
4G retains momentum
While 5G gains traction, 4G networks will continue to hold significant market share, expected to cover 35 percent of mobile users by 2030. Meanwhile, older 2G and 3G technologies are predicted to gradually phase out as consumers and businesses embrace faster, more reliable networks.
The shift to 4G and 5G is also driving an exponential rise in mobile data demand. Sub-Saharan Africa’s mobile data usage per smartphone is forecast to grow from 5.4 GB per month in 2024 to 17 GB by 2030—a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21 percent. This surge reflects increasing reliance on data-heavy applications like video streaming, online gaming, e-commerce, and social media.
Fixed wireless access: a solution for connectivity gaps
The report underscores the critical role of Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) in expanding internet access, especially in areas where traditional fibre infrastructure is impractical. FWA uses wireless technology to deliver high-speed internet to homes and businesses, making it a cost-effective solution for remote and underserved regions.
By closing connectivity gaps, FWA is enabling millions of Africans to access educational resources, work remotely, and participate in the digital economy.
Mobile money: driving financial inclusion
Ericsson’s findings also highlight the growing importance of financial technology in the region. Mobile money services, supported by telecom operators, are revolutionising financial inclusion by enabling millions of unbanked individuals to send and receive money, pay bills, and access basic banking services.
This fintech boom reflects the region’s innovative use of mobile networks to empower communities economically and socially.
Global trends and the future of 5G
On a global scale, mobile network data traffic is expected to triple by 2030, driven by the rapid adoption of 5G. By then, 5G subscriptions will reach 6.3 billion, with 60 percent relying on standalone (SA) networks, which deliver ultra-low latency, massive IoT support, and advanced features like network slicing.
The next frontier, 5G Advanced, promises to optimise network performance further and unlock new revenue streams for telecom operators by prioritising tailored services over raw data volume.
‘Our #AfricaInMotion vision aligns with Africa’s digitalisation journey, empowering sustainable growth and economic development,’ Mihovilovic added, reinforcing Ericsson’s commitment to advancing connectivity across the continent.
A digital future in focus
With its burgeoning mobile subscription base and rapid 5G rollout, Sub-Saharan Africa is poised for a digital transformation that will redefine connectivity, foster economic growth, and enhance quality of life. By embracing next-generation technologies, the region stands on the brink of a revolutionary leap into a more connected future.
