Cape Town — New research released at the GSMA Digital Africa Summit in Cape Town has painted a clearer picture of how affordable smartphones, stronger policy reform and deeper digital inclusion could accelerate Africa’s economic growth. The reports, published under the titles Accelerating Smartphone Adoption in Africa and Enabling Smart Manufacturing in Africa, outline the links between connectivity, affordability and industrial digitalisation, and how these elements can reshape everyday life across the continent.
Speaking at the summit, Angela Wamola, Head of GSMA Africa, said Africa’s digital shift is already transforming how people work, learn and access essential services. She noted that the next step is ensuring that the benefits of connectivity reach every citizen. Affordable devices remain the largest barrier, particularly in regions where the mobile internet usage gap continues to widen despite near-universal network coverage.
GSMA Intelligence estimates that closing the usage gap by 2030 could add about 700 billion dollars to Africa’s GDP. South Africa’s recent tax reforms on entry-level smartphones offer an example of how policy changes can make access more inclusive. At last year’s MWC Kigali event, African operators and the GSMA proposed minimum specifications for affordable 4G devices and urged governments to scrap taxes on smartphones below 100 dollars. Removing these costs could cut prices by up to half and bring mobile access within reach of millions.
Despite 95 percent of the continent being covered by mobile networks, only around 40 percent of people actually use mobile internet. High device prices, limited digital literacy and a shortage of relevant local content remain the strongest barriers. Community networks and satellite services are expanding reach to remote areas, but the GSMA says affordable devices and stronger digital skills will determine whether coverage turns into meaningful participation.
Alongside device access, the GSMA’s report on smart manufacturing highlights how digitalisation in factories and industrial hubs could unlock productivity and new jobs. Reliable electricity, strengthened 4G and 5G coverage and targeted investment in key sectors such as healthcare, education and manufacturing remain essential to this growth.
The GSMA has called for governments, industry and development partners to reduce taxes on smartphones, scale up pre-owned and financing models, and accelerate digital infrastructure to support an inclusive digital economy. Further discussions on the role of mobile technology in shaping Africa’s economic future will continue at MWC Doha in November.
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