Overview

Reliable energy access remains a persistent barrier to digital connectivity in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Less than 1% of households have access to fixed broadband, and many mobile operators face frequent power outages, limited grid access, and rising operational costs due to fuel dependence. The region’s heavy reliance on diesel generators, exacerbated by rising fuel prices and frequent theft of equipment, makes mobile network operation challenging. 

These challenges undermine the delivery of essential mobile services and hinder broader progress towards the region’s sustainable development goals. Strengthening energy access for mobile networks has become a key priority in ensuring connectivity remains stable and inclusive.

Response

In response to these constraints, GSMA partnered with mobile operators, regulators, and policymakers across the region to explore the energy-related obstacles facing digital infrastructure. The resulting report, Energy Challenges for Mobile Networks in sub-Saharan Africa, provides an in-depth look at how energy insecurity affects the performance and expansion of mobile networks.

Angela Wamola, Head of sub-Saharan Africa at GSMA, emphasised the essential role of energy in enabling digital transformation across the continent. Recognising that mobile networks are a backbone of progress in SSA, GSMA has been at the forefront of advocating for innovative, low-carbon energy solutions to help operators overcome power-related barriers and ensure greater service reliability.

Impacts and achievements

The research and collaborative efforts have led to some positive outcomes in the region:

Deployment of renewable solutions: Mobile operators have increasingly turned to solar energy and battery storage solutions to maintain connectivity. In South Africa, operators have partnered with Eskom and the government to access renewable energy from independent power producers, improving reliability and reducing energy costs.

Improved policy environment: Countries like Kenya and Uganda have seen success in expanding access to energy, with Kenya now generating over 90% of its electricity from renewable sources. Namibia has positioned itself as a leader in solar energy development through effective policy reforms, attracting private investment.

Collaboration and cost-effective solutions: Mobile operators in South Africa have worked together, allowing them to jointly procure backup power and security. This shared approach has helped reduce costs and improve network stability.

Outlook

While significant progress has been made, energy insecurity remains a challenge across much of SSA. The GSMA continues to advocate for policy environments that support private sector investment in renewable energy and the expansion of mini-grids. These shifts will be critical to ensuring a stable, sustainable energy supply for mobile networks across the region. 

Ongoing collaboration among operators, government stakeholders, and energy providers will be key to unlocking further progress. With the right frameworks in place, energy reliability can become a catalyst for advancing both digital inclusion and climate resilience across sub-Saharan Africa.