With the rapid rise in internet usage—especially among the younger generation who now conduct most of their activities online, from business and entertainment to education and more—a dependable internet connection has become essential. While Africa is gradually catching up with the rest of the world, the progress made over the years is noteworthy and cannot be underestimated.
A country’s internet quality is influenced by several factors, including speed, stability, and overall performance, all of which affect the efficiency of online activities.
Data from the April 2025 Speedtest Global Index, which measures internet performance worldwide based on real user data, shows that African countries have demonstrated varying levels of progress in mobile internet speed.
Tunisia
Tunisia leads all African countries in internet speed in 2025, with an impressive 97.15 Mbps, ranking 46th globally. The country boasts a highly advanced telecommunications infrastructure in North Africa, offering broadband at some of the lowest prices on the continent. Internet access is made possible through fiber-optic backbones, submarine cables, terrestrial links, and satellite connectivity.
Morocco
Morocco ranks 62nd globally, with an internet speed of 65.62 Mbps. The country’s digital transformation program—which includes major investments in national broadband and smart city initiatives—has led to consistent improvements in both speed and coverage across the country.
South Africa
South Africa follows closely, ranking 67th, with an average speed of 60.27 Mbps. Known as a digital powerhouse in Africa, South Africa’s urban centers like Johannesburg and Cape Town benefit from high-speed fiber networks, allowing users to stream, game, and work with ease.
Kenya
Kenya is ranked 74th globally, with an internet speed of 52.60 Mbps. Its strong undersea fiber-optic connections and the rapid deployment of 5G technology have helped deliver some of the continent’s fastest mobile and broadband speeds, especially in Nairobi.
Nigeria
Nigeria ranks 81st globally, with an internet speed of 46.78 Mbps, making it the fastest in West Africa. This advancement signals growing investment and interest in connectivity. Telecom giants continue to expand 4G networks while testing early 5G infrastructure. Market liberalization policies also point toward even greater performance in the near future.
Egypt
Egypt has climbed to the 86th position, boasting an internet speed of 39.86 Mbps. Mobile internet in Egypt is not only fast but also affordable and widely accessible, contributing to its growing digital economy.
Algeria
Algeria ranks 92nd globally, with an internet speed of 35.06 Mbps. Several government initiatives have driven improvements in connectivity, including the nationwide installation of optical fiber cables and multi-service access nodes (MSANs), enhancing the country’s digital infrastructure.
Libya
Libya comes in at 99th globally, with an internet speed of 21.02 Mbps. Although internet access remains unevenly distributed, the country has made significant strides over the past two decades. Its current ranking reflects ongoing efforts to improve speed and expand connectivity.
As Africa continues to embrace digital transformation, the growth in internet speed and accessibility is a promising sign for the continent’s economic and technological future.
