Cameroon: As 5G approaches, consumers face the challenge of adoption
August 25th 2026
Interest in 5G is accelerating in Africa. The fifth-generation mobile technology is seen as a catalyst for the ongoing digital transformation, for governments, businesses, and households alike.
In Cameroon, the process leading to the launch of 5G is nearing completion, according to the Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ART). While this technology promises higher speeds, reduced latency, and new applications, its arrival, as in several African markets, raises questions about the state of preparedness and the level of interest among the general public.
The progress of the process was discussed by Philémon Zo’o Zame (pictured), Director General of ART, in an excerpt from a recent interview published on the telecoms regulator’s TikTok account on Sunday, August 23. He did not specify the timeline for finalizing the process or for the commercial launch of 5G in Cameroon.
Equipment and service costs
Across the continent, one of the main obstacles to 5G adoption remains its affordability. This concerns both the cost of compatible equipment, such as smartphones, tablets, and routers, and the cost of the services offered by telecom operators. In a survey of industry stakeholders conducted for the report “5G in Africa: Realising the Potential,” published in 2022, the cost of equipment and services was cited by 37% of respondents as the primary barrier to adopting the technology.
Regarding equipment, the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) noted in a report published in January 2025 that devices are generally the main cost factor for consumers wishing to adopt new technology, particularly when this expense must be incurred immediately. The organization pointed out that 5G-compatible smartphones could be purchased starting at $150, but emphasized that significant segments of the African population cannot afford smartphones at current prices.
In Cameroon, 41.62% of the population aged over 15 used a smartphone in 2024, according to World Bank data. However, this data does not specify the proportion of these devices compatible with 5G networks. Consumers’ ability to access the new technology will therefore depend in part on the rate at which the existing device fleet is replaced.
Furthermore, while it is not yet possible to determine the extent to which 5G offers will be more expensive than 4G offers in Cameroon, data cited by the GSMA in markets where the technology is already available shows that some consumers are willing to pay more for access. In its “Mobile Economy 2025” report, the organization indicated that consumers considering switching to 5G were prepared to pay on average 5% more than for their current 4G subscription.
This willingness to pay could change as the user base expands. The GSMA believes that price sensitivity should increase as 5G moves beyond primarily targeting early adopters and reaches a wider audience.
Data from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) indicates that 5 GB of mobile internet in Cameroon represented 5.72% of gross national income (GNI) per capita in 2025. The ratio rises to 17.2% for fixed internet, while the threshold not to be exceeded for the service to be considered affordable is set at 2%.
Availability of uses
The availability of 5G-compatible use cases and applications will be crucial in enabling consumers to understand the value of this technology and encourage its adoption. 27% of industry stakeholders surveyed for the GSMA’s “5G in Africa: Realising the Potential” report indicated that the lack of use cases was the main obstacle.
According to the GSMA, everyday uses such as messaging, social media, and internet browsing will not necessarily justify the switch to 5G, as 4G already meets the needs of a large portion of users. The organization identifies video streaming, video games, live sports, and cloud storage as services likely to stimulate demand for improved connectivity. It highlights the potential of gaming, driven by the growth of mobile gaming and cloud gaming, which can take advantage of 5G’s high speeds and low latency.
The GSMA also believes that entertainment-related experiences, such as live sporting events, concerts, or certain interactive experiences, can allow operators to demonstrate the added value of 5G. Conversely, the organization believes that augmented, virtual, or immersive reality applications may face more difficulties in developing in Africa in the short term, due to the cost and availability of the necessary equipment.
Quality of service
One factor not to be overlooked with the arrival of 5G is the quality of service, particularly in Cameroon, where recurring consumer complaints about voice and data network performance are common. Users report dropped calls, poor sound quality, and unstable internet access. These issues are observed in major cities like Yaoundé and Douala, as well as in the northern regions.
The situation persists despite pressure exerted by the authorities on operators, who are regularly called upon to improve their performance and increase their investments. In July 2025, a total fine of 2.6 billion CFA francs (approximately $4.6 million) was imposed on the operators following technical audits conducted between April and May 2024.
Therefore, while 5G is expected to bring a noticeable improvement to the user experience, its higher speeds and reduced latency will only truly be a selling point if consumers benefit from a stable and high-performing connection. More advanced technology alone will not be enough to convince users if coverage or service quality issues persist.
Network coverage will also be crucial. An initial deployment concentrated in certain areas, particularly major urban centers, could limit the appeal of a 5G subscription for consumers who wouldn’t benefit from uninterrupted service while traveling. Residents of rural areas also risk being without the technology for a long time.
Back