Top 5 African countries with the highest number of people offline in 2025

These days, the internet isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. It has transformed nearly every aspect of life, from education and healthcare to business and communication.

With just a few taps on a phone or computer, you can access endless information, connect with people worldwide, or even launch a business from home. The digital age has made life faster, smarter, and more interconnected than ever.

Across Africa, efforts to expand internet access are gaining momentum. Governments are setting ambitious broadband targets, investing in digital infrastructure, and working to bridge the connectivity gap.

However, despite these advancements, a large portion of Africa’s population remains offline, unable to access the benefits of the internet.

Several factors contribute to the significant number of Africans who remain offline. The digital divide is influenced by a combination of economic, infrastructural, and social barriers that make internet access difficult for large segments of the population.

One of the biggest issues is that many rural areas just don’t have the right infrastructure. No fibre-optic cables, not enough mobile towers, and barely any broadband services.

Telecom companies tend to focus on cities where they can make more money, which leaves people in smaller towns and villages without any connection. If there’s no basic setup, getting online is simply not an option.

Then there’s the cost. Even in places where the internet is available, a lot of people can’t afford it. Mobile data is still too expensive for many, so staying connected becomes a luxury instead of a basic need.

In Africa, Nigeria has the highest number of people offline, with a staggering 128 million citizens lacking internet access. Ethiopia follows closely with 105 million offline, while the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has 77 million unconnected people.