Are African countries ready to roll out 5G networks?

30th January 2025, Nairobi-Kenya: The African Telecommunications Union (ATU) has unveiled a crucial new report that evaluates the readiness of African countries to roll out and utilize 5G networks across the continent.

What does Africa's 5G report mean for Africa?

With Africa’s future digital ecosystem increasingly reliant on advanced networks, ATU’s 5G report provides both an urgent and strategic outline for nations to follow.

Does South Africa have a 5G network?

acitymedia.com)4.5 Roadmap for South AfricaWhile South Africa is well advanced in terms of deploying and commercialising 5G networks, the coverage of these networks remains restricted to major cities. This is likely due to a continuing delay to spe

What is 5G FWA & how does it work in Africa?

This advancement complements traditional fixed broadband infrastructure within the region. Notably, several key African markets, including Angola, South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Zambia and Zimbabwe, have already launched 5G FWA services. This shift can be attributed to its cost effectiveness, rapid deployment capabilities and inherent flexibility.

What drives 5G growth in the region?

Driving forces behind 5G growth in the region include a positive economic outlook and forward-thinking regulatory measures for building out network coverage, meaning the stage is set for the telecom market to thrive in the region. Some key markets in the region have already launched 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) services.

Will Rwanda have a 5G network?

G networks would be constrained in any case. The roadmap to 5G in Rwanda is therefore complicated by the question of which operators are eligible to operate a network, and, given the low uptake for LTE services (caused by a lack of afordable smartphones, and high prices caused by wholesale