In 2024, Africa had over 500 million mobile internet users. From Gen Z to baby boomers, each generation is developing its own distinct ways of using the web.

As of 2024, broadband internet usage in Africa remains relatively low at 38%, compared to the global average of 68%, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Despite this gap, some African countries are showing encouraging momentum due to ambitious digital transformation policies.

Network expansion, a relative drop in data prices, and the growing availability of affordable smartphones have reshaped the profile of internet users and their digital habits. Markets such as Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, and Senegal each exhibit unique characteristics yet share notable similarities.

Data compiled from UN agencies and the GSMA show Senegal leading in internet penetration, followed by Cameroon, and then Côte d'Ivoire. In terms of cost, Côte d'Ivoire offers the most affordable mobile internet access, with its lowest-priced data plans falling below the UN Broadband Commission's benchmark of 2% of monthly gross national income per capita. Meanwhile, mobile phones are most accessible in Senegal, according to the GSMA.

Youth Dominate Digital Space

Thanks to these favorable conditions, internet adoption is increasing in all three countries. Internet penetration grew by 2.6% in Cameroon, 2.4% in Côte d'Ivoire, and 2.3% in Senegal, according to Kepios' 2025 Digital Report.

Youth aged 15 to 24 represent the largest share of mobile internet users in these countries. According to the ITU, this age group made up 53% of internet users in 2024. In Cameroon, they accounted for roughly 22% of the national population, a figure mirrored in Côte d'Ivoire and Senegal.

Digital habits among young people are largely consistent worldwide. Kepios’ models show that 62.1% of 15 to 24-year-olds go online mainly to communicate with friends and family. Other key uses include information searches at 61%, entertainment such as watching videos at 59.3% and listening to music at 55.3%, as well as studying at 52.4% and accessing tutorials at 51.7%.

Among the 25 to 34 age group, usage patterns remain similar, though interest in news slightly increases. For the 35 to 65+ demographic, priorities shift toward news, information searches, social communication, tutorials, and health content, with the latter being especially popular among users in their 50s.

Written in French by Muriel Edjo,

Translated and adapted into English by Mouka Mezonlin