The Mobile Economy Sub-Saharan Africa 2024 (GSMA)

Summary

• 4G is forecast to account for 50% of total connections in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.p.4
• 5G is forecast to contribute $10 billion to the region's economy by 2030.p.4
• That 5G contribution would account for 6% of mobile's total economic impact.p.4
• The mobile ecosystem directly supported 1.5 million jobs in 2023.p.4
• It also supported more than 2.2 million jobs in other sectors in 2023.p.4

Key insights

1. A significant usage gap persists, driven by device affordability, online safety and digital skills barriers.p.4
2. Advanced forms of 5G remain a distant prospect in Sub-Saharan Africa, as operators must first prove the business case for initial 5G investments.p.5
3. Inflation, currency volatility, sector-specific taxation and escalating energy costs are driving market consolidation.p.5
4. Financial pressure has resulted in market exits or consolidations in some instances.p.5
5. Investment in the sector is crucial if the region's digital divide is to be reduced.p.5