Digitalisation which involves the use of digital technologies to transform business models, create new revenue streams and value-producing opportunities requires rethinking processes and systems to effectively leverage digital capabilities. Africa is currently riding this wave of digitalisation.
The late 1980s marked the beginning of a new era of digitalisation and globalisation, revolutionising the world and unleashing its potential. Over the years, there has been numerous advancements that have significantly elevated global connectivity and technological progress.
The rise of smartphones has led to websites being optimised for smaller screens and the introduction of mobile apps. The internet has become an indispensable tool, influencing communication, education, entertainment, and global economies.
Africa’s youthful population is in a prime position to benefit from the internet’s advantages. According to the United Nations, Africa has the youngest population in the world, with 70% of sub-Saharan Africa’s population under the age of 30. Such a large number of young people represents an opportunity for the continent’s growth, offering vast potential for productivity, creativity, and development.
Today, data is important, and its affordability is key to ensuring internet accessibility for young Africans who are actively pursuing their dreams, contributing to Africa’s economic ecosystem, and laying the foundations for future generations.
Moreover, Africa’s IT sector is expanding rapidly. Startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and even the informal sector are increasingly relying on the internet to operate their businesses. This rapid adoption of technology is made possible by affordable broadband. Hence, access to reasonably priced internet services is essential for continued growth and innovation.
According to the Global Broadband Pricing League Table 2024 report compiled by Cable.co.uk, six countries in Northern Africa feature in the cheapest half of the table, with three ranking in the top 40 globally. The average broadband price in the region is USD 22.57. The cheapest was Egypt (USD 9.67, 9th globally), followed by Tunisia (USD 14.53, 21st globally), and Libya (USD 18.68, 36th globally).
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Below is a list of African countries with the most affordable broadband internet:
- Sudan: Ranked 1st in Africa, with an average monthly broadband cost of $2.40.
- Egypt: Ranked 5th in Africa, with a monthly broadband cost of $8.31.
- Zimbabwe: Ranked 11th globally for Africa, with an average monthly broadband cost of $9.64.
- Republic of the Congo: Ranked 20th globally for Africa, with an average monthly broadband cost of $12.62.
- Tunisia: Ranked 23rd globally for Africa, with an average monthly broadband cost of $15.01.
- Eswatini: Ranked 29th globally for Africa, with an average monthly broadband cost of $15.90.
- Ethiopia: Ranked 40th globally for Africa, with an average monthly broadband cost of $18.46.
- Libya: Ranked 42nd globally for Africa, with an average monthly broadband cost of $19.07.
- Algeria: Ranked 47th globally for Africa, with an average monthly broadband cost of $20.80.
- Nigeria: Ranked 51st globally for Africa, with an average monthly broadband cost of $21.89.
