MTN, Vodacom lead 5G speeds in sub-Saharan Africa
Mobile carriers across sub-Saharan Africa are deploying fifth-generation wireless infrastructure while simultaneously building out fourth-generation coverage to boost service quality and network capacity. Recent data from Ookla Speedtest Intelligence examined performance metrics in eight nations representing more than half the region’s cellular subscriptions, focusing on providers under Airtel Africa, Orange, MTN, and Vodacom.
MTN South Africa recorded the highest median throughput at 74.76 megabits per second for downloads, with Mascom and Orange in Botswana both surpassing 56 Mbps. Vodacom registered 174.9 Mbps on 5G connections in South Africa. Uganda’s MTN network delivered 235.22 Mbps over 5G links, outpacing Airtel Uganda’s 160.21 Mbps. Safaricom dominated Kenya with speeds more than twice those of its competitors. In West Africa, Orange Côte d’Ivoire achieved 35.25 Mbps downloads while MTN Nigeria posted the fastest 5G result at 226.59 Mbps. Democratic Republic of Congo operators lag with speeds under 25 Mbps due to sparse 4G footprints and no 5G availability. Botswana emerged as an early regional leader, with Mascom recording 206.26 Mbps downloads and Orange close behind.
Carriers are expanding despite currency volatility and elevated energy expenses, betting on growing demand from younger subscribers seeking digital services across the continent’s evolving telecommunications landscape.
