Africa Telecommunications Sector Report 2025-2026

Africa's telecommunications sector is experiencing a period of dynamic growth and diversification, fuelled by increasing smartphone penetration, a surging demand for mobile money and streaming services, and substantial infrastructure investment. This trajectory positions the continent for continued digital transformation, though significant challenges remain. Mobile services are at the heart of Africa's telecommunications boom. The number of mobile cellular subscribers in Africa grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3% in the 2014-2024 period, faster than in any other region in the world, according to data from International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The data shows that in 2024, the total number of mobile cellular subscriptions in Africa reached 1.19bn, up 7.9% y/y. In 2024, Africa accounted for an estimated 13% of global mobile cellular subscriptions, ranking the continent third behind the Asia-Pacific region and the Americas.

This report provides a complete and detailed analysis of the "TMT" sector for Africa and the Middle East. EMIS Insights presents in-depth business intelligence in a standard format across countries and regions, providing a balanced mix between analysis and data.

What this report allows you to do:

• Understand the key elements at play in the "TMT" sector in Africa and the Middle East
• Crystallise the forces both driving and restraining this sector in Africa and the Middle East
• Ascertain Africa and the Middle East’s position in the global sector
• Build a complete perspective on sector trade, investment and employment
• Understand the competitive landscape and who the major players are
• View M&A activity and major deals
• Gain an understanding of the regulatory environment for the sector in Africa and the Middle East.
• Build a clear picture of trends, output and consumption for specific sub-sectors