Mobile tech investment in Kenya could add $290 billion to Africa’s economy by 2030.

Mobile technologies are forecast to contribute $290 billion to Africa's economy by 2030 as digital adoption deepens across the continent, though the region's primary challenge has now shifted from expanding infrastructure to ensuring people fully use existing connectivity, according to industry organization GSMA. The organization announced this projection on Tuesday, emphasizing how mobile technology has become a cornerstone of African economic development and what obstacles remain before the full potential is realized.

The GSMA Mobile Economy Africa 2026 report revealed that the sector contributed $240 billion in 2025, equivalent to 7.8% of Africa's total GDP. The industry supported 13 million jobs throughout the continent and generated $45 billion in public revenues, demonstrating how the usage gap rather than coverage gap now defines the next phase of the industry's development. These figures highlight the substantial economic impact mobile technology already has and the significant growth opportunity remaining.

After a decade focused on expanding coverage, mobile operators are repositioning themselves as digital transformation partners by deploying artificial intelligence, expanding service offerings, and opening their networks to broader access. More than three quarters of mobile operators cite this strategic shift as a core objective, indicating a fundamental transformation in how the industry approaches its role in African economic development from basic connectivity provider to comprehensive digital solutions partner.

Approximately 63% of Africans remain unconnected to mobile internet despite living within mobile broadband coverage areas, compared with just 9% who lack actual access to the infrastructure. Affordability concerns, limited digital skills, and social barriers continue to constrain usage rates, according to GSMA analysis. This usage gap represents the critical challenge the industry must address to unlock the full $290 billion economic potential projected for 2030.

The industry is significantly ramping up investment to address these challenges, with operators expected to spend more than $76 billion on network infrastructure by 2030. This substantial investment commitment demonstrates the sector's confidence in Africa's digital future and its dedication to bridging the usage gap through improved infrastructure, alongside initiatives focused on affordability, digital skills training, and overcoming social barriers to mobile internet adoption across the continent.