Regional Spotlight Africa – October 2024
This is report closely tracks the status of 4G and 5G network deployment in Africa. It uses the latest GSA data and draws on various GSA reports, including private mobile networks and satellite non-terrestrial networks, to provide a comprehensive overview of the status of 4G and 5G deployment in the region.
In recent years, Africa has witnessed significant advancements in telecommunications technology. The proliferation of 4G LTE networks has transformed the digital landscape, enabling faster data speeds, enhanced connectivity and the widespread adoption of mobile broadband services across the region. Moreover, the advent of 5G technology promises to usher in a new era of connectivity, characterized by ultrafast speeds, low latency and greater security.
This report delves into various aspects of mobile network evolution including the status of LTE, the roll-out of 5G networks, advancements in LTE-Advanced, the emergence of 5G standalone infrastructure, the development of private networks, the switch-off of 2G and 3G technologies and the progress of satellite services.
LTE has played a transformative role in the growth of the African market over the past 10 years. Since launching in some countries in 2012, increased connectivity has facilitated better communication, increased access to educational resources and introduced the ability to use digital platforms for services, including energy and banking.
South Africa, Angola and Namibia were among the first to introduce LTE networks. Over the years, penetration has expanded, helping facilitate socio-economic development in the region. Although these improvements have benefited millions of people, many still lack stable Internet access, creating a digital divide.
As of the end of September 2024, GSA identified 833 operators globally that have launched LTE technology, a net rise of only nine launches since the end of 2023 (see
Since 2015, the peak year for LTE launches, the global number of net launches per year has decreased from 122 to just nine, a drastic decrease.
Looking at Africa more closely, by the end of September 2024, GSA identified 190 operators in 55 countries and regions investing in LTE mobile or fixed wireless access services. Of these, 160 operators in 53 countries have launched LTE technologies, covering the entire region and pointing to the strong uptake and impact of the technology in the continent.
In the coming months and years, the picture for LTE looks to be much weaker. GSA has identified just nine operators deploying or testing the technology in eight countries.
In addition, 11 operators in 10 countries including Angola and Zambia are currently planning deployments.
Regional Spotlight Africa – October 2024
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© GSA 2024
