• Infrastructure Development: A decade ago, limited terrestrial fibre and reliance on expensive satellite links constrained internet access. Today, a network of undersea fibre optic cables rings the continent, dramatically increasing bandwidth and reducing costs. Simultaneously, national and regional fibre backbones are extending, though the "last mile" remains a challenge in many rural areas.
• Increasing Affordability of Devices and Data: While still a barrier for many, the price of smartphones has steadily decreased, making them accessible to a wider segment of the population. Similarly, data costs, though varying significantly across countries, have generally become more affordable due to increased competition among mobile network operators.
• Mobile Money and Digital Services: Africa has pioneered mobile money, with services like M-Pesa in Kenya revolutionising financial inclusion. This familiarity with mobile-based transactions has naturally paved the way for broader digital service adoption, including e-commerce, online learning platforms, and digital health services.
• Government Initiatives and Private Sector Investment: Many African governments recognise the internet as a critical enabler for socio-economic development and have implemented policies to encourage infrastructure expansion and digital literacy. Private sector investment, from local tech startups to global giants, further fuels this ecosystem.

The internet's growing footprint is profoundly reshaping African societies:

• Economic Empowerment: E-commerce platforms are connecting small businesses to wider markets, creating job opportunities in logistics and digital marketing. The gig economy is thriving, enabling individuals to offer services online. Tech hubs are emerging in major cities, fostering innovation and attracting investment.
• Education and Knowledge: Online learning platforms are democratizing access to education, offering courses from primary school level to professional development. Students and researchers can access vast libraries of information previously out of reach.
• Healthcare: Telemedicine is bridging geographical gaps, allowing patients in remote areas to consult with doctors. Health information is more readily available, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their well-being.
• Governance and Civic Engagement: E-government initiatives are improving service delivery and transparency. Social media platforms enable greater civic participation, giving citizens a voice and facilitating advocacy.
• Innovation and Local Content: African developers are creating solutions tailored to local needs, from agricultural apps to entertainment platforms. The rise of local content creators on platforms like YouTube and TikTok is fostering cultural exchange and economic opportunities.

Despite impressive progress, significant challenges remain:

• Affordability: While data costs have dropped, they can still consume a substantial portion of income for many, particularly in low-income brackets. The cost of smartphones also remains a barrier.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Though fibre networks are expanding, rural and remote areas often lack reliable and affordable connectivity. Power outages and unreliable electricity supply also hinder consistent internet access.
• Digital Literacy: A significant portion of the population, especially older generations and those in rural areas, lacks the basic digital skills to effectively utilise the internet, perpetuating a knowledge gap.
• Gender Digital Divide: Women in Africa are less likely to own a mobile phone and access the internet compared to men, often due to socio-economic factors, cultural norms, and lack of digital literacy.
• Regulatory Environment: In some countries, restrictive policies, high taxation on data, or internet shutdowns can impede growth and freedom of expression.

The trajectory for internet use in Africa points towards continued, robust growth. As 5G networks become more prevalent in urban centres and satellite internet solutions like Starlink begin to offer alternatives in remote areas, connectivity will become even more pervasive. The focus will increasingly shift from mere access to meaningful access – ensuring affordability, digital literacy, and the creation of relevant, local content that truly empowers users.