Top 10 African Countries Leading in Fast and Reliable Internet Connectivity in 2024

November, 06, 2024- Internet access is becoming increasingly important around the world, and African countries are, of course, making significant progress making doing business and living in Africa is steadily becoming easier than before.

Fast, reliable internet is now a necessity, helping to boost economies, open up learning opportunities, and improve daily life. Many nations on the continent are investing in improved internet networks, each making progress differently. 

Based on the Speedtest Global Index from January 2024, here are the top 10 African countries with the best internet speeds, showing the real changes happening in Africa’s digital growth.

10. Nigeria

Nigeria is increasingly investing in its digital infrastructure. With an average speed of 19.67 Mbps, Nigeria’s internet connectivity is steadily improving, supporting a booming tech ecosystem in cities like Lagos and Abuja. The Nigerian government has launched initiatives like the National Broadband Plan, aiming for 90% broadband penetration by 2025. This progress helps drive the country's vibrant e-commerce, fintech, and media industries, though there is still a demand for faster speeds to meet high digital demands and support the rapidly growing online services market.

9. Tanzania

Tanzania has made significant strides in expanding internet access, particularly in urban areas. At 22.68 Mbps, the country's connectivity allows for a growing number of online services and has fostered a tech-driven community, especially in Dar es Salaam. Infrastructure investments, such as the National ICT Broadband Backbone, are part of a government effort to extend fiber optic networks, aiming to improve this speed even further in the coming years. Tanzania’s internet access expansion supports growth in telemedicine, online education, and e-commerce, benefiting both urban and remote communities.

8. Algeria

With an average speed of 24.09 Mbps, Algeria ranks among the best in North Africa for connectivity. Government investments in infrastructure, including the deployment of fiber optics and satellite technology, have made online education, e-commerce, and government services more accessible. Algeria's development of a robust digital infrastructure is also expected to support its burgeoning startup ecosystem, especially as more citizens gain access to reliable internet services that encourage innovation and entrepreneurship.

7. Egypt

Egypt, a key tech hub in Africa, has seen substantial growth in internet connectivity, achieving an average speed of 25.617 Mbps. The Egyptian government has launched its Digital Egypt strategy, which aims to transform the nation into a regional tech leader. With recent improvements in fiber and 4G coverage, Egypt has enabled more efficient e-government services, online banking, and an expanding network of tech startups. As Egypt continues to prioritize a digital economy, its focus on tech education and digital inclusion is creating new job opportunities and economic potential.

6. Tunisia

Tunisia’s internet speed of 26.17 Mbps ranks it as one of the more connected countries in North Africa. Tunisia's Ministry of Communication Technologies has been working to boost digital connectivity to attract foreign investments and support local industries. With a well-educated workforce and a growing tech sector, Tunisia’s enhanced internet infrastructure facilitates digital transformation in areas such as e-learning, remote work, and tourism. Government-backed projects aim to expand connectivity in rural regions, creating a more digitally inclusive society. 

5. Namibia

Namibia’s internet connectivity, at an average of 28.79 Mbps, is among the highest in Southern Africa. The country’s emphasis on digital inclusion and accessibility has made faster internet available to more citizens, especially in urban areas. Namibia’s collaboration with international tech firms has furthered the implementation of fiber networks, supporting remote work, e-commerce, and digital content creation. The government’s Vision 2030 plan prioritizes ICT as a key driver of economic growth, pushing Namibia toward greater technological integration. 

4. Kenya

Kenya, often considered East Africa’s technology powerhouse, boasts an impressive internet speed of 30.41 Mbps. Nairobi, the country’s capital, is frequently called "Silicon Savannah" due to its vibrant tech ecosystem, which includes notable companies like Safaricom and M-Pesa. Kenya’s extensive 4G and fiber networks, supported by the government’s Digital Economy Blueprint, enable growth in sectors such as fintech, mobile banking, and e-commerce. This connectivity supports Kenya’s position as a leader in digital finance, education, and startup innovation, which all contribute to sustainable economic growth. 

3. Morocco

With an average internet speed of 41.40 Mbps, Morocco has prioritized improving internet access through investment in both fiber optic and 4G technology. The Moroccan government has introduced the Digital Development Agency, which seeks to boost internet accessibility and support digital transformation. High-speed internet in Morocco supports its fast-growing digital economy and enhances both urban and rural connectivity. Key sectors, such as online education, health tech, and digital content creation, are benefiting from this improved infrastructure.

2. South Africa

South Africa has long been one of Africa’s most connected countries, with an average speed of 52.31 Mbps. As a tech leader on the continent, South Africa’s infrastructure includes a widespread fiber network and extensive mobile broadband coverage. The country’s high-speed internet supports a thriving business environment, with digital sectors like fintech, online retail, and media experiencing growth. The South African government’s National Broadband Policy aims to achieve universal broadband access by 2030, with a focus on digital inclusion for underserved communities.

1. Mauritius

Mauritius tops the list with an average internet speed of 98.23 Mbps. This island nation has strategically invested in high-speed internet to position itself as a regional business and tech hub. The government’s Smart City initiative has helped expand fiber networks and 4G coverage, supporting industries such as finance, tourism, and digital services. With a population highly engaged in e-commerce, Mauritius benefits from enhanced digital transformation that improves the quality of life for citizens and attracts international business investment.