5G deployment expands across 37 African markets

The deployment of 5G technology in Africa has transitioned from experimental trials to commercial services. As of late May 2026, 61 telecommunications operators have launched commercial 5G services across 37 African markets, according to a report by GSMA Intelligence.

Despite this progress, 5G currently accounts for only about 5% of mobile connections in Africa, significantly lower than the global average of 33%. Adoption is primarily concentrated in business districts, ports, mining sites, and industrial hubs where high-speed data provides immediate economic returns.

Projections suggest that 5G connections in Africa will reach nearly 100 million by the end of 2026 and grow to 383 million by 2030, representing 21% of the continent's total mobile subscriptions. Most existing networks utilize non-standalone (NSA) architecture, which relies on existing 4G core networks. Standalone (SA) 5G, which operates on a dedicated 5G core, remains in its early stages with fewer than five operators having launched such services.