Africa’s telecommunications sector continues its rapid growth, fueled by a youthful population, rising smartphone adoption, and increasing demand for digital services. By mid-2025, ten major telecom companies are set to lead the continent’s connectivity and digital transformation across diverse markets. These companies are ranked considering various factors such as subscriber base, revenue, market capitalization, and geographic presence.
Leading the list is MTN South Africa, with 39.2 million users by September 2024, leveraging the broader MTN Group’s pan-African footprint and investments in 5G and renewable energy to maintain its market leadership. Close behind, Vodacom Group dominates multiple markets, boasting 50.7 million subscribers and expanding 5G and financial services like M-Pesa. Telkom South Africa follows with significant growth in mobile and fiber, emphasizing network expansion and operational streamlining.
Egypt’s Orascom Telecom remains influential, especially through its stake in Orange Egypt and internet services. Maroc Telecom, a subsidiary of e&, commands a substantial customer base of 80 million across Morocco and West Africa, bolstered by partnerships and upcoming 5G deployment.
MTN Nigeria leads Nigeria’s market with over 90.5 million connections, representing more than half of all subscribers in Africa’s most populous nation, driven by data and voice growth. Algeria’s Orascom Telecom Algerie (Djezzy) sustains its presence amid evolving ownership landscapes. Mobinil, now Orange Egypt, maintains a key role in Egypt’s dynamic market with comprehensive telecom offerings.
Kenya’s Safaricom, renowned for its pioneering M-PESA mobile money service, continues as a market leader despite competitive pressures. Lastly, Telecom Egypt stands as a critical infrastructure provider with a 42% revenue increase in early 2025, supporting mobile, broadband, and voice services in North Africa.
