Smartphone Shipments Grow in Africa, But Kenya, Morocco, and Algeria Struggle Amid Import Restrictions
Africa’s smartphone landscape is evolving rapidly as low-cost devices and innovative financing reshape who can connect and how
Africa’s smartphone market is showing signs of resilience. In the second quarter of 2025, shipments rose 7% year-on-year to 19.2 million units, a continuation of a slow but steady upward trajectory. Analysts point to easing inflation and currency stability in major economies as key drivers behind the growth.
Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa emerged as the top performers. Egypt’s market surged 21%, while Sub-Saharan Africa grew 10%, buoyed by a stabilised Nigerian naira. South Africa’s growth was more modest at 2%, yet its 5G segment saw a dramatic 63% jump, spurred by vendor-operator partnerships and flexible financing plans that made higher-end devices accessible to more consumers.
Not all countries shared in the growth story. Kenya saw a 2% decline, Morocco fell 7%, and Algeria slumped 27%, weighed down by weak demand and tighter import regulations. The contrast highlights how localized economic factors continue to shape Africa’s diverse smartphone landscape.
Manish Pravinkumar, principal analyst at Canalys, highlighted a significant trend reshaping the market: ultra-low-cost smartphones. Models priced under US$100 surged 38% in Q2, driving affordability while keeping average selling prices on a downward trend since 2023. “These devices are not just about connectivity; they are gateways to mobile money, fintech, and digital services, especially in rural areas,” he noted.
Despite the gains, smartphones still account for only half of all mobile connections across Africa, with affordability remaining the primary barrier. Analysts are urging manufacturers to explore local production to cut costs and support long-term growth.
In terms of market share, Transsion remains dominant, controlling 51% with 9.2 million units shipped—a 6% increase year-on-year. Samsung followed with 3.4 million units (up 3%), Xiaomi shipped 2.8 million units (up 32%), Honor rose sharply with 800,000 units (up 161%), while Oppo rounded out the top five with 700,000 units (down 11%).
Looking ahead, Canalys forecasts Africa’s smartphone market will grow 3% in 2025, outpacing a subdued global market despite rising component costs. The emerging battlegrounds are likely to be rural markets, where limited banking infrastructure is fueling demand for digital services.
Africa’s mobile landscape is evolving, and while challenges remain, the combination of affordability, connectivity, and digital inclusion suggests the continent’s smartphone market is poised for measured but meaningful growth.
Go to TECHTRENDSKE.co.ke for more tech and business news from the African continent and the world.
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