GSMA | GSMA research charts a more inclusive digital future for Africa

New studies released at the GSMA Digital Africa Summit in Cape Town reveal how affordable smartphones, innovation and progressive policies can connect millions and empower communities across the continent.

November 10, 2025, Cape Town: As policymakers, industry leaders and innovators gather for the GSMA Digital Africa Summit in Cape Town, new GSMA research shows how digitalization in key sectors – from connectivity to manufacturing – can unlock opportunities for millions of people across the continent.

The findings, published in Accelerating smartphone adoption in Africa and Enabling smart manufacturing in Africa, present a unique vision: that connectivity, affordability and progressive political reform are the foundations of Africa's next phase of economic and digital growth.

“These reports demonstrate that Africa's digital transformation is already changing the way people live, work and access essential services.” saying Angela Wamola, Director of GSMA Africa. “To be truly inclusive, we must address affordability and accessibility head-on, ensuring that all citizens, businesses and public services can benefit from the power of connectivity.”

Accelerate smartphone adoption

According to GSMA Intelligence, closing the gap in mobile internet usage in Africa by 2030 could add around $700 billion to Africa's GDP, while transforming lives through improved access to education, healthcare and financial services. However, affordability remains the biggest barrier to smartphone ownership.

South Africa's recent tax reforms on basic smartphones show how tax policy can make digital access more inclusive, an approach that the GSMA and its industry partners are urging other African governments to replicate.

Building on this momentum, at MWC Kigali 2025, the GSMA and major African operators launched a continent-wide initiative proposing minimum specifications for affordable 4G smartphones and called on governments to remove taxes and tariffs on devices priced below $100. Eliminating these costs could reduce mobile phone prices by up to 50 percent, expanding access for the three billion people across Africa who still lack meaningful connectivity.

Connectivity: closing the usage gap

Mobile networks now cover 95% of Africa's population, but only about 40% use mobile Internet. This growing usage gap, driven primarily by high device costs, limited digital literacy and a dearth of local content, is now the continent's biggest connectivity challenge.

New connectivity models, including community networks and satellite solutions, are expanding their reach to remote areas, but these alone cannot close the gap. Real progress depends on affordable devices, relevant local services and digital skills, ensuring coverage translates into participation.

Smart manufacturing: driving productivity

as soon as possible Enabling smart manufacturing in Africa The report shows how digitalization in factories and industrial centers can boost productivity, job creation and competitiveness.

A shared call to action

To realize this vision, the GSMA calls on governments, industry and development partners to:

• Reduce taxes and fees on affordable smartphones, particularly those under US$100.

• Scale pre-owned and financing models to drive smartphone adoption.

• Prioritize reliable electricity and 4G/5G coverage for critical sectors such as health, education and manufacturing.

At GSMA's MWC Doha 2025 (25-26) there will continue to be a greater focus on the role of mobile technology in accelerating digital economies and driving inclusion.^th November).

-ENDS-