In an era defined by rapid digital transformation, mobile communication continues to serve as the bedrock of connectivity across Africa. While global internet penetration has reached 67%, leaving 2.63 billion people offline at the start of 2025, our continent faces an even greater digital divide, with many key markets recording internet adoption rates well below 50%.  In Nigeria, for instance, only 45% percent of the population use the internet, while in Kenya the figure stands at 48% percent. These statistics underscore the enduring importance of SMS and USSD as inclusive communication channels that transcend the barriers of device type and network availability.

Over recent years, USSD has proven itself indispensable for both financial services and everyday interactions. As of June 2023, USSD channels accounted for 70% of instant payment transactions in Africa, enabling secure, real-time banking without requiring smartphones or data plans. Meanwhile, SMS – ubiquitous on every GSM-enabled handset – remains the most reliable means of delivering critical alerts, one-time passwords and customer engagement messages to communities from Cape Town to Cairo.

Our strategy embraces these technologies not only as stopgap solutions, but as powerful levers for growth, inclusion and innovation:

However, we are not standing still.

We believe that the future of mobile communication lies in bridging the gap between the old and the new. That’s why our Application-to-Person (A2P) platforms are designed to operate not only on SMS and USSD, but also across modern channels like WhatsApp and Rich Communication Services (RCS). This approach marries the tried and tested with the cutting-edge – allowing our clients to benefit from both the reach of legacy infrastructure and the rich, conversational experiences enabled by newer technologies. It’s a compelling proposition that positions our business as forward-thinking, while still grounded in what works for the realities of the African market.  In doing so, we empower brands, governments, and development partners to communicate inclusively, flexibly, and with confidence – no matter the device in hand or the strength of the signal.

As we look to the future, our ambition is to harness the full potential of mobile communications – combining SMS and USSD with emerging technologies where feasible – to accelerate financial inclusion, empower businesses and strengthen resilience in every community we serve. At Connect Mobile, we are proud to stand at the intersection of progress and practicality and will continue to unlock opportunities across the continent.

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