Kigali: Africa is set to take center stage in the global digital innovation landscape as the Mobile World Congress 2025 (MWC25) prepares to open at the Kigali Convention Centre from October 21 to 23. Organized by the GSMA, this is the first time the congress will be hosted on the African continent, reflecting the region’s growing role in technological development and digital transformation.
The three-day event will bring together governments, telecom operators, technology companies, startups, and international institutions to explore the drivers and challenges of Africa’s digital growth. Discussions will focus on how digital technology can foster inclusive economic development and improve access to essential services. Vivek Badrinath, Director General of the GSMA, highlighted that MWC Kigali will provide a platform for African and global leaders to collaboratively define strategies for technological growth and inclusion.
Rwanda’s selection as host underscores its ambition to become a regional hub for digital innovation. The country has invested significantly in digital infrastructure and continues to attract international investors and companies. Despite these advances, large segments of the African population still face limited digital access due to high costs and uneven network coverage, according to the International Telecommunication Union.
The economic impact of mobile technologies in Africa is substantial. The GSMA Mobile Economy Sub-Saharan Africa 2023 report noted that mobile services contributed 8.1 percent of Sub-Saharan Africa’s GDP in 2022, equating to approximately USD 170 billion. This contribution is expected to grow to USD 205 billion by 2030, driven by increased smartphone penetration, which is projected to rise from 49 percent in 2022 to 61 percent by 2030. The expansion of mobile technologies is supporting sectors such as e-commerce, e-health, and mobile financial services, already used by more than 400 million people across the continent.
MWC25 will also highlight emerging technologies, including 4G and 5G networks, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things, which are expected to enhance productivity and service delivery across multiple industries. The event will feature a range of prominent speakers and exhibitors, including Kate Kallot, Hussam Baday, Erwan Gelebart, and Doreen Bogdan-Martin. Major global companies such as Huawei, ZTE, Orange, MTN, and Ethiotel, along with innovators from Qualcomm, China Mobile International, Meta, Telcoin, and African startups, will showcase solutions in fintech, agritech, and e-health.
A central theme of the congress will be digital inclusion. Doreen Bogdan-Martin emphasized the need to bridge the digital divide to meet critical needs in education, health, and financial access. Lara Dewar, Marketing Director of the GSMA, said the forum aims to empower Africa with a stronger voice in shaping the global digital future while enabling policymakers and private sector players to collaborate on sustainable solutions.
MWC25 in Kigali marks a major milestone for Africa’s digital transformation and highlights the continent’s growing influence in global technology discussions.