Only eight African countries met the testing and performance thresholds required to be ranked among the world’s fastest mobile internet markets in 2025, according to the latest Speedtest Global Index published in February 2026 by Ookla.
The index evaluates mobile network performance using millions of user-initiated tests, measuring download speeds, latency and connection stability. Average speeds are reported in megabits per second (Mbps), a key benchmark of digital infrastructure maturity.
Morocco leads the continent by a wide margin, recording an average mobile download speed of 124.32 Mbps, ranking 39th globally. The country’s performance reflects accelerated 5G rollout and continued modernization of mobile infrastructure.
South Africa follows with 65.70 Mbps, placing 64th worldwide. Its position underscores its role as a major digital hub, supported by a relatively mature telecom ecosystem and sustained investment from leading operators.
Tunisia ranks third in Africa with 57.30 Mbps, securing 72nd place globally. Ongoing 5G deployment by operators including Orange Tunisia, Ooredoo and Tunisie Télécom, alongside structural investments and international financing initiatives, has supported network upgrades and expanded capacity.
Algeria takes fourth place on the continent with 53.62 Mbps (78th globally). Kenya ranks fifth at 45.37 Mbps (80th), followed by Egypt at 44.51 Mbps (83rd) and Nigeria at 44.14 Mbps (85th). Libya rounds out the top eight with 22.34 Mbps, ranking 103rd worldwide.
The performance gap across Africa reflects differing levels of investment in next-generation networks and backbone capacity. Connectivity quality is increasingly seen as a structural driver of economic competitiveness, digital service growth and technology investment attractiveness.
Globally, Gulf countries dominate the rankings. The United Arab Emirates leads with 686.12 Mbps, followed by Qatar at 593.34 Mbps, alongside Kuwait and Bahrain. Their strong performance is attributed to early 5G adoption, ample spectrum allocation and advanced network infrastructure.
