5G is the fifth generation of mobile network technology, offering faster speeds, lower delays and capacity for many more connected devices than 4G. Several African countries have launched commercial 5G, mainly in major cities. Here is what it means in practice.
5G vs 4G
| 4G | 5G | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical speeds | Good for streaming and video calls | Much faster peak speeds |
| Latency (delay) | Low | Lower, useful for real-time applications |
| Capacity | Can congest in crowded areas | Handles far more devices per area |
| Coverage | Widespread in many countries | Mostly cities and selected sites |
Real-world 5G speeds depend on the spectrum used, network load and distance from the mast.
Where 5G is available in Africa
South Africa was among the first African countries to launch commercial 5G, and operators in markets including Kenya, Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, Ghana and others have since launched or trialled services. Coverage is concentrated in large cities and business districts. Check your operator’s coverage map for your area.
What 5G is useful for
- Home and office internet: 5G fixed wireless access can replace fibre where cables have not been laid
- Busy places: better performance in crowded city centres and events
- Business and industry: private networks for ports, mines and factories
- Video and cloud services: faster uploads and streaming
Do you need 5G?
For most everyday use, such as messaging, social media, browsing and mobile money, a good 4G connection is enough. 5G is most valuable if you use a lot of data, live or work in a covered area, or want a home internet alternative to fibre.
How to get 5G
- A 5G-compatible phone or router: check it supports the frequency bands your operator uses
- A 5G-enabled SIM and plan: some operators require a SIM upgrade or specific bundle
- Coverage: you must be in a 5G area; elsewhere your phone uses 4G
Shopping for a phone? Read How to Choose a Smartphone in Africa.
Challenges to 5G rollout
- Cost of spectrum and network equipment
- Need for more masts and fibre, since higher frequencies cover smaller areas
- Power supply for sites
- Device affordability: 5G phones cost more, although prices are falling
- Return on investment when many users still rely on 3G and 4G
Is 5G safe?
Health authorities, including the World Health Organization, have stated that no adverse health effects have been established from exposure to mobile network radio waves within international guidelines. 5G networks are designed to operate within those limits. Claims linking 5G to illness have been widely debunked.
Learn how 5G fits into the bigger picture in Internet Connectivity in Africa.
