In a groundbreaking new report by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Africa’s digital landscape has seen a phenomenal transformation, with internet usage surging from 181 million users in 2014 to nearly 646 million today. This represents a rapid expansion of internet access across the continent, with Egypt and Nigeria emerging as key players, together accounting for nearly a third of all internet users in Africa.
The report, published by Statista, highlights how the growth of internet usage in these two of Africa’s most populous nations reflects the broader trend of digitalization sweeping across the continent. Egypt and Nigeria are not only driving the rise in internet users, but are also benefiting from shifting consumer behaviors—particularly a growing demand for mobile video streaming and the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) applications, which require vast amounts of data.
As mobile data consumption surges, the ITU’s report reveals an exciting outlook for Africa’s internet future. The number of internet users across the continent is expected to surpass 1.1 billion by 2029, a massive 70 percent increase. This growth is being fueled by advancements in both technology and affordability. As internet access becomes more widespread, the cost of mobile data continues to fall, making connectivity more accessible to millions. In fact, the cost of 1 GB of mobile data has plummeted from $12.44 in 2010 to just $1.57 in 2020, a trend that is expected to continue as telecom infrastructure improves.
Egypt’s Role in Africa’s Digital Expansion
Egypt, in particular, has experienced remarkable growth in internet usage. According to the Egyptian Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, by August 2024, the number of mobile internet users in Egypt reached 82.51 million—an increase of over 7.9 million new users in just one year. This growth, marking an annual increase of 10.64 percent, demonstrates Egypt’s leading role in Africa’s digital economy.
The country’s telecommunications sector is also benefiting from a growing smartphone market, which is further boosting internet access and data consumption. As smartphones become more affordable and ubiquitous, millions of Egyptians are gaining easier access to the internet, unlocking new opportunities for digital education, entrepreneurship, and online services.
A Bright Future for Africa’s Digital Economy
The rapid expansion of internet users in Africa, particularly in Egypt and Nigeria, is not just a technological trend—it’s a key factor in the region’s economic growth. The increasing availability of affordable internet is driving new consumer behaviors and business opportunities, especially in sectors like e-commerce, mobile banking, and digital education.
As the cost of data continues to fall and the continent’s infrastructure improves, the digital divide that has long hindered many African nations will continue to shrink. With Africa poised for even greater internet adoption in the coming years, the opportunities for growth, innovation, and inclusion are limitless. Egypt and Nigeria, standing at the forefront of this transformation, are well-positioned to lead the continent into a new era of digital connectivity.
