The digital revolution sweeping across Africa has brought about unprecedented connectivity, with millions of individuals accessing the internet daily. As of 2024, several African nations stand out for their remarkable number of internet users, contributing to the continent’s burgeoning digital landscape. Below are the top 10 countries with the highest internet users in Africa, driving digital growth and transformation.
1. Nigeria – 115,500,000 (approx.)
Nigeria continues to lead the pack as the country with the highest number of internet users in Africa. With a population exceeding 200 million, Nigeria’s internet user base reflects its large and digitally engaged population. The country’s vibrant tech ecosystem and growing digital economy contribute to its impressive internet penetration.
The first attempt at introducing Internet in Nigeria was made through the UNESCO sponsored RINAF project in 1995, but it later became a reality in the late 90’s.
Being the most populous black country on earth, its no surprise that the country has the highest number of internet users in Africa.
Between 2020 and 2021, the number of internet users in Nigeria increased by 19 million (+22%). As at August 2022 Internet penetration in Nigeria stood at 50.0% and is set to reach 65.2 percent in 2025.
2. Egypt – 79,200,000 (approx.)
Egypt maintains its position as one of Africa’s digital powerhouses with a substantial number of internet users. The country’s strategic location, coupled with government initiatives to boost digital infrastructure and innovation, has fueled internet adoption across various sectors. Egypt has the second largest internet users in Africa.
3. South Africa – 42,480,000 (approx.)
As the most developed economy on the continent, South Africa boasts a significant internet user base. With a well-established telecommunications infrastructure and increasing smartphone penetration, South Africans are actively engaging in online activities, from e-commerce to social media.
4. Morocco – 32,550,000 (approx.)
Morocco’s internet landscape has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, driven by investments in digital infrastructure and government-led initiatives to promote digital literacy. The country’s young and tech-savvy population is embracing the internet for education, communication, and business.
Research universities led the development of the internet in Morocco from the early 1990s, with internet access extended to the general public in 1996. Between 2013 and 2014, the Moroccan Internet population grew by 1 million. As of 2024, more than 90% of Moroccan citizens use mobile devices to access the Internet. The country has the fourth largest internet users in Africa.
5. Algeria – 31,240,000 (approx.)
Algeria empowers its citizens through digital engagement, boasting over 31 million internet users. The government’s commitment to expanding broadband access and enhancing digital skills has catalyzed internet adoption nationwide. As Algerians embrace digital opportunities, the country’s digital landscape continues to evolve rapidly.
6. Ghana – 22,440,000 (approx.)
Ghana’s burgeoning tech scene and supportive regulatory environment have contributed to the country’s growing internet user base. With a thriving startup ecosystem and increasing investments in digital infrastructure, Ghana is poised to become a regional hub for innovation and technology.
7. Congo, Democratic Republic of the – 21,102,000 (approx.)
Despite facing infrastructural challenges, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has made significant strides in improving internet access and connectivity. The country’s young population is driving demand for online services, presenting opportunities for digital growth and development.
8. Tanzania – 20,480,000 (approx.)
Tanzania’s internet landscape is evolving rapidly, propelled by investments in telecommunications infrastructure and efforts to expand connectivity to underserved regions. The proliferation of mobile technology has facilitated internet access for millions of Tanzanians, driving socio-economic development.
Internet access in Tanzania, a country in East Africa, began in 1995. Within 5 years, 115,000 people were connected to the Internet. Since then, there has been significant growth. Today the country has the eighth largest internet users in Africa.
9. Ethiopia – 20,400,000 (approx.)
With over 20 million internet users, Ethiopia has the 9th highest number of internet users in Africa. Ethiopia’s internet user base has seen substantial growth in recent years, following the government’s liberalization of the telecommunications sector and initiatives to improve digital infrastructure. With a vast population and increasing smartphone adoption, Ethiopia holds immense potential for digital expansion.
10. Kenya – 15,370,000 (approx.)
Kenya, often regarded as East Africa’s tech hub, boasts a dynamic internet ecosystem characterized by innovation and entrepreneurship. The country’s mobile money revolution, led by platforms like M-Pesa, has played a pivotal role in driving internet adoption and financial inclusion.
