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Welcome to The Pulse by Kasi - a weekly newsletter on what Africans think, want and do, in real time.

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Global technology and telecom companies are increasing their presence in Africa, making the continent a vital area for digital growth. With a young, mobile-focused population and limited infrastructure, Africa offers a unique mix of high demand and scalable opportunities.

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Africa’s Digital Sector: A Key Area for Global Tech Companies

Africa’s digital and startup sectors are attracting strong foreign investment, with over $6 billion raised in 2024, particularly in fintech, health tech, and e-commerce. Global tech firms and telecom giants, such as Airtel are expanding 4G/5G networks, cloud infrastructure, and digital training across key markets, while satellite providers like Starlink are extending access to remote areas.

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Despite this momentum, challenges persist. Infrastructure remains largely foreign owned, raising concerns about digital sovereignty and data control. Urban-rural disparities in connectivity and underdeveloped regulatory frameworks continue to limit broader inclusion. Still, with the digital economy projected to surpass $200 billion by 2030, Africa is fast becoming a strategic hub for global tech and telecom growth.

Tech & Telcom

​Starlink in Africa: Two years later, the promise is visible but so are the cracks​

🌍 Two years after launch, Starlink is visible across Africa, but trust is lagging. With high awareness (65%) but low immediate uptake, consumers cite price, reliability, and support gaps as key hurdles. In Kenya, it ranks 7th with just 19,146 subscribers. Can it turn interest into impact?

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​Airtel Africa teams up with SpaceX to shake up internet access across the continent​

🚀🌍Airtel Africa x Starlink. Expanding internet access across 14 African countries, but at what cost to ownership and digital sovereignty. Is this progress or just a shortcut?

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​Mobile money outpaces fintech in Ghana’s digital finance​

📊 Trust still matters: In Ghana, fintech apps face high abandonment while mobile money shines with strong loyalty and advocacy. 🔑 Building trust is the next frontier.

Retail & FMCG

​Kenyan consumers are shifting from survival to intentional living reshaping value wellness and brand responsibility​

As Kenyans embrace 🧠 mindful living and 💰 smarter spending, brands must respond with ✅ authenticity, 💡 practical innovation, and 📊 proof of impact to build lasting trust.

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​As rising costs persist, widespread reliance on borrowing emerges as a primary coping mechanism for Cameroonians​

📉 In Cameroon, borrowing is no longer a backup plan but a lifeline. Nearly 9 in 10 people rely on it to survive rising costs, even among the middle class.

Finance & Banking

​Are financial institutions ready to help Namibians achieve financial freedom?​

🌍 94% of Namibians are chasing the dream of financial freedom! Whether it's buying a home or just getting through the month without financial worry, each generation has its own strategy. What does financial freedom mean to you? Share your goals and join the conversation!

Media & Entertainment

​Nigeria’s media preferences shift toward digital trust and audience-specific engagement​

📊 Nigeria's media habits are shifting fast—digital trust now leads at 56% while TV and billboards still hold power across key segments. Smart brands are blending reach with relevance to stay ahead.

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​Contact us to find out how our data empower decision makers like yourself in Africa​

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