Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian
A large segment of African smartphone users continues to rely on 3G networks, limiting their ability to access the fast and reliable connectivity needed for modern, data-heavy applications.
An analysis by Opensignal revealed that in 11 out of the 27 African markets surveyed, users spend more than 20% of their time on 3G, an aging technology that struggles to support smooth streaming, social media, and digital services. In countries like Mali and Zimbabwe, users are even connected to 2G for over 6% of their time, further restricting their use of data-intensive services.
Hardik Khatri from Opensignal highlighted that this reliance on outdated technology hampers digital progress across the continent. “The gap in network quality indicates a clear need to shift to more advanced networks like 4G and 5G,” says Khatri. “3G lacks the speed and capacity required for today’s digital applications, severely limiting user experience.”
Another major challenge in African mobile connectivity is the lack of signal in certain areas. In Tunisia, for instance, users report no connectivity for more than 5% of their time, with similar issues observed in Mali, Morocco, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In contrast, South Africa and Rwanda experience minimal signal loss, with less than 1% downtime.
“These connectivity gaps are a direct result of the economic and infrastructure challenges faced by many markets,” Khatri explains. “Infrastructure upgrades are costly but crucial to closing the digital divide.”
These challenges are exacerbated by the high costs of upgrading backhaul networks, powering remote sites, and maintaining backup generators to combat power outages. Security issues, such as vandalism and theft, further complicate the situation. The high cost of 4G/5G-enabled devices and low digital literacy also contribute to slow mobile internet adoption in the region.
Despite these obstacles, some African governments and telecom companies are working to expand 4G and 5G coverage while phasing out 2G and 3G. For example, Airtel Nigeria is shifting resources to 4G, and South Africa’s Department of Communications and Digital Technologies has extended the deadline for retiring 2G and 3G networks to December 2027. Telecom providers in South Africa have launched campaigns offering device upgrade incentives and educational programs to facilitate the transition.
However, Khatri warns that this phase-out process must be handled carefully. “For many users, mobile networks are their only source of internet access. Phasing out older networks too quickly could disconnect people from essential services.”
Transitioning to advanced networks presents significant opportunities, including faster connectivity and access to applications that promote digital inclusion and economic participation, such as mobile financial services, e-commerce, and digital government services.
Yet, Khatri stresses that continued reliance on outdated networks will hinder these opportunities and limit economic growth. “To close Africa’s digital divide, a comprehensive approach is needed,” says Khatri. “Investment in infrastructure, efficient spectrum allocation, supportive regulations, and widespread adoption of 4G and 5G are all essential. Together, these efforts can empower users with the connectivity they need to fully engage in the digital world.”
With collaboration among telecom operators, policymakers, regulators, and international institutions, Africa can achieve rapid digital transformation, aligning with the goals of Africa’s Agenda 2063 and driving socio-economic development across the continent.
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