High costs make cheap smartphones harder to get in Africa

The ambition to provide $30 smartphones across Africa is facing significant hurdles despite extensive infrastructure development. While mobile network coverage has expanded significantly—reaching approximately 97% of people in Senegal, 98% in Uganda, and over 80% in Nigeria—a massive connectivity gap persists. According to GSMA official Caroline Mbugua, the primary obstacle has shifted from a lack of signal to the high cost of hardware and data.

This trend indicates that physical network availability no longer guarantees digital inclusion. For companies operating in markets like Nigeria, this shift necessitates a closer look at local consumer affordability and the practical costs of digital engagement. Businesses must evaluate regional service availability and specific regulatory requirements, as the inability of populations to purchase internet-capable devices may alter the expected scale of digital service adoption and compliance landscapes.