The internet is Facebook in most of Africa! Yes, i know that’s an audacious statement until you consider the stats.
There are about 50 million Facebook users in Africa out of a total of about 167 million internet users on the continent. Facebook users alone represent about 30% of all internet users and it’s the single most frequented website on the internet.
Out of the top 10 countries on the Mega social network including Egypt, South Africa, Nigeria, Morocco, Algeria, the website was either the first or second most visited site according to site-ranking website Alexa . Egypt for instance which has the largest user accounts of 13M had Facebook as the top most visited site in the country.
Africa represents 15% of the world’s population with a population of about 1.07 Billion people. Of these, only 15.% have access to the internet which represents only 7% of internet users in the world according to Internet World Stats website.
Africa therefore represents a huge growth opportunity for Facebook and it’s no doubt that the social network is taking the aspect cementing its footprint on the continent quite seriously.
Facebook for Every Phone takes FB on every feature phone
Upon realising its potential, Facebook has worked hard to bring its app to feature phones which make up most of the handsets in the continent. Facebook for Every Phone is a fast and easy-to-use native app that works on more than 3,000 different types of feature phones from almost every handset manufacturer that exists today. These devices can cost as little as 20 US dollars. The company last year announced that it had reached a remarkable milestone of more than 100 million people using Facebook For Every Phone each month.
Facebook Zero further ballooned Facebook usage
The network has further been working with local operators to offer its service either cheaply or for free to the masses. The social network has arrangements with 18 mobile operators in 14 countries to provide special pricing for usage of its services.
In May 2010, Facebook announced Facebook Zero. It is a simplified, text-only version of Facebook that can be accessed for free at 0.facebook.com if you’re in the right country and the right carrier and you’ve got the sort of WAP-enabled “feature phone” (i.e., non-smartphone) that comprises the majority of the phones on the planet. According to the Quartz website , in the 18 months after Facebook Zero launched in Africa, the number of Africans on Facebook ballooned by 114%.
For the carriers, Facebook, represents the first entry to the web. So while its free for starters, users are more likely to browse other services on the web, some originating from Facebook itself which of course are charged for. This strategy, in the long run guarantees revenue for the carriers.
Facebook is driving ICT adoption, and it wants to provide the access
Facebook is inevitably driving the adoption of ICTs in Africa. As the website ICTWorks.org put it, “ Current clients wanted faster Internet connectivity to download all the images and video sent their way via Facebook, and more technology (cameras, video & image editing software) to create content for their Facebook pages.”
Even though the website continues to maintain its minimalistic design with most of the content being text-based, users are increasingly posting more media-rich content on the platform. There are about 250 billion photos on the site, and a staggering 350 million are uploaded on a daily basis.
This kind of content calls for not just faster internet speeds but also cheaper data rates if Facebook hopes to maintain the fluid user experience it’s so obsessed with. To meet this meteoric demand, the social network is considering using orbiting drones.
According to TechCrunch , the company is looking to acquire New Mexico-based drone maker Titan Aerospace for roughly $60 million. Since Titan Aerospace’s solar-powered drones can fly above the clouds for upto 5 years, Techcrunch reports that Facebook will build 11,000 of these drones to distribute across parts of the developing world that don’t yet have Internet access—in an effort to propel Mark Zuckerberg’s Internet.org initiative forward.
The drones also seem to be Facebook’s response to Google’s Project Loon which instead uses orbiting balloons to bring internet connectivity to the developing world.
But Will the drones be the answer to Africa’s connectivity issues?
As ambitious as it may seem, Facebook maybe pouring money in the wrong place if its sole objective is to bring more people online in Africa. I reached out to several Telecom gurus to help me put into perspective Facebook’s plans in relation to the current connectivity landscape on the continent.
Edgar Kiiza, who is big fan of this blog thinks that 2/3G cellular connectivity remains by far the most efficient means of connectivity;
“ They all basically require that the internet user on the surface of the earth connects to either of them (Google balloon or the Facebook Drone) using a guided or special satellite antennae for line-of-site to the satellite in space to communicate signals back and forth. Now, the implication for this kind of set up is that internet access is ”FIXED” and not Mobile. Thus, the importance of the 3G/ GSM operators in bridging that technological void cannot be overstated here. For the greater part of the future, 3G and soon 4G mobile access to the internet will remain the most efficient and cost effective method to spread connectivity. It is more flexible to adopt and use.”
Edgar’s point is, Mobile is king in Africa. The drones will require some kind of special receiving antennae on the ground, which, if ain’t a mobile phone is a hard bait to take as Roger Bambino who writes for TechJaja puts it;
“On the user end this will be a fixed service at least initially, you will need to install some kind of outdoor unit, to receive the signal which can be converted into that ‘real’ wifi signal that your phone/tablet can receive. “
The mobile phone is already a self-reliant, self-powering device that doesn’t use grid power to function. Those external units will not only introduce additional costs for users, but will need grid power which isn’t yet available to the greater part of Africa.
When it comes to issues concerning regulation, Facebook may initially not have a hard time with local regulatory bodies according to Edgar;
“Suffice to note that the deployment of drones and Balloons will NOT cause any kind of interference in the local GSM powered internet access platforms because they operate over different bands as defined by the ITU. Regulatory issues will also be handled by the ITU, but definitely some security conscious countries will fight the drones and the balloons out of their airspace!!”
Although, In the U.S, drones are still heavily regulated as it is illegal to use drones for any commercial purpose . There aren’t much regulatory drone framework in most African countries yet.
Internet giants are in race to dominate the digital landscape in Africa. From Google’s use of cheap android devices , fibre optic cables in Uganda and balloons to Microsoft’s 4Afrika program and makes use of white TV spaces in Kenya and now Facebook’s orbiting drones, the race is heating up.
Question is, where does this leave African companies? What effect does this leave on budding local innovations/innovators that can’t afford billions of dollars available to global giants?
Featured Image: Communike.com
David Okwii is the Editor-in-Chief of Dignited.com and a seasoned tech enthusiast whose journey began in the early 2000s. He started blogging while at university, diving deep into mobile apps, smartphone reviews, and operating systems—from testing Linux distros to tweaking Windows machines. David also explores Chromebooks, experiments with Raspberry Pi projects, and brings hands-on curiosity to every review. With vast experience in Uganda’s tech ecosystem and deep knowledge of Africa’s startup landscape, he offers informed, grounded perspectives on consumer technology. When he’s not writing or tinkering, David enjoys connecting with nature and exploring the outdoors.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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