Google’s projections align with a previous study — the Google/IFC e-Conomy Africa 2020 report — which anticipates 167 million new mobile users in sub-Saharan Africa by 2025. This will bring the total number of mobile subscribers in the region to 623 million.
A new report released by Google estimates that artificial intelligence (AI) could contribute over $30 billion to sub-Saharan Africa’s economy in the coming years.
The report, The Digital Opportunity of Sub-Saharan Africa, was conducted independently by Public First, on the region with 70% of its population under the age of 30.
Internet access across sub-Saharan Africa varies significantly, with about 66% of people online in southern Africa, but only 24% in Central Africa, according to Statista. The World Bank reveals that internet usage in West Africa hovers around 30%. The report predicts that even a 1% increase in internet access could lead to nearly a 6% rise in gross domestic product (GDP).
Speaking on the report, Alex Okosi, Managing Director of Google Africa, explains AI’s potential for the region to FORBES AFRICA: “While the report doesn’t pinpoint specific countries as front-runners in AI-driven growth, it highlights sectors where AI’s impact is already evident or holds substantial promise… It emphasizes its [AI] value in the area of automating tasks, boosting efficiency and productivity; and creating new products and services.”
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According to the data, 76% of online adults in sub-Saharan Africa identify as entrepreneurs, further highlighting that every dollar invested in digital technologies in Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to generate over $2 in broader economic value by 2030. This finding illustrates the high return on investment (ROI) for digital advancements, particularly in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.
“For the first time, we’ve included an AI curriculum to help business owners understand how they can leverage AI technologies for growth,” Okosi notes. “To further address infrastructure needs, investments like the Equiano subsea cable and our new Cloud region in Johannesburg are critical steps. Additionally, public-private partnerships will play a key role in closing the skills gap by delivering AI training programs and fostering a supportive policy environment that encourages innovation and addresses ethical concerns.”
Entrepreneurs across the continent are already recognizing the potential of AI. Ifeoluwa King, co-founder of VendorStack, a Nigerian social commerce startup, believes AI will touch every sector. “AI will streamline processes, increase efficiency, and cut costs. It will spark innovations from Africa’s creative youths and improve productivity, which will lead to increased revenues,” King tells FORBES AFRICA.
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