Affordable internet data is a key driver of digital inclusion, innovation, and economic growth. Across Africa, countries with lower prices for mobile data give citizens better access to education, jobs, e-commerce, and digital services — without breaking the bank. According to recent global and regional internet pricing reports, several African nations now stand out for offering some of the lowest cost per gigabyte (GB) on the continent.
Here’s a look at the top 5 African countries where data costs are lowest in 2026 — highlighting the continued progress toward more affordable connectivity.
1. Malawi — ~$0.38 per GB
Malawi regularly ranks as the cheapest country in Africa for mobile data — with prices averaging around $0.38 per gigabyte of data. This extraordinary affordability has helped boost digital access in both urban and rural communities, despite slower average internet speeds compared to some peers.
Local competition among mobile network operators and flexible data plans tailored to low-income users have contributed to Malawi’s position at the top of the affordability charts.
2. Nigeria — ~$0.39 per GB
As Africa’s most populous country, Nigeria also boasts extremely low data costs — roughly $0.39 per GB, according to global data reports.
Affordable mobile data has become a key driver of Nigeria’s massive online population and expanding digital economy, supporting everything from fintech adoption to social media usage and remote work.
3. Ghana — ~$0.40 per GB
Ghana follows closely with average data prices of around $0.40 per GB.
This competitive pricing — supported by a liberalised telecom market and growing 4G infrastructure — has strengthened online participation and enabled more affordable access to digital services across the country.
4. Somalia — ~$0.50 per GB
In several affordability rankings, Somalia emerges as another of Africa’s lower-cost countries for mobile data, with average rates near $0.50 per GB.
Somalia’s competitive telecom sector — particularly in urban centres — has driven more accessible pricing, although quality and speed can vary widely across regions.
5. Rwanda — ~$0.55 per GB
Rwanda completes the top five with data costs of about $0.55 per GB — placing the East African nation among the most affordable on the continent.
Government support for telecom infrastructure and expansion of rural coverage have helped push Rwanda into the list of cheapest data markets, benefiting students, small businesses, and everyday users alike.
Honourable Mentions
Several other African countries also rank low in terms of data pricing, even if they don’t make the top five list:
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Kenya — around $0.59 per GB
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Morocco — approximately $0.63 per GB
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Egypt — near $0.65 per GB
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Mauritius — roughly $0.67 per GB
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DR Congo — about $0.68 per GB
These nations also offer relatively competitive pricing by continental standards, making internet access more attainable for a broader share of their populations.
Why These Rankings Matter
Affordable data pricing isn’t just about saving money — it’s a foundation for digital equality and economic participation. Lower costs mean more people can:
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Use online education and e-learning platforms
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Engage with e-commerce and digital marketplaces
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Access health and government services online
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Work remotely or build digital businesses
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Stay connected with global networks
Across Africa, improvements in infrastructure, regulation, and market competition are gradually lowering data costs — though significant disparities still exist between countries and regions.
