The African smartphone market grew 9% to 74.7 million units in 2024, as easing inflation across the continent boosted consumer purchasing power.
In its report, Canalys highlighted Africa’s strong market potential and long-term opportunities but acknowledged that the continent still faces short-term macroeconomic challenges, including persistently high inflation, currency depreciation risks, and limited economic momentum. The analyst firm predicted that the African smartphone market will grow by just 2% in 2025, well below its record high of 90.5 million units in 2021.
“Canalys forecasts 2% growth in 2025 as Africa navigates economic complexities,” said Canalys Senior Analyst Manish Pravinkumar.
*“However, Africa remains one of the most promising growth markets globally, despite its complex business environment. Challenges such as currency volatility, shifting tax policies, and geopolitical risks place high demands on operational capabilities.
“Notably, the resilient business models developed by vendors in Africa—ranging from adapting to abrupt risks to aligning closely with mass market needs—will serve as a replicable strategy for expansion in other emerging markets.”*
Transsion, which owns Tecno, Infinix, and iTel, was the top smartphone vendor in 2024, growing 10% year-on-year to 37.9 million units, securing a 51% market share.
Samsung took second place but suffered a 22% decline, shipping 13.9 million units. Xiaomi ranked third, with shipments reaching 8.4 million units, an impressive 38% annual growth.
Realme saw the strongest growth among the top vendors, surging 89% year-on-year to 3.8 million units, while Oppo rounded out the top five, growing 10% to 3.1 million units.
