Telecom
Mobile Money Records Huge Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2021

Mobile money adoption and use saw continued growth in 2021, processing a record US$1-trillion annually. The industry enjoyed a substantial increase in the number of registered accounts, up 18% since 2020 reaching 1.35 billion globally. The volume of person-to-person transactions were up to more than 1.5 million every hour.
This is according to the GSMA’s annual ‘State of the Industry Report on Mobile Money’ released this week
The report reveals that one of the most significant drivers of growth was merchant payments, which almost doubled year on year. It also highlights how mobile money continues to act as a core pillar of financial and economic inclusion, particularly for women.
While the research provides a global view of the mobile money milestone of US$1-trillion in processed transactions, it also breaks down the contribution of the different global regions including Africa.
Growth hugely evident in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2021
The organisation stated that globally, mobile money growth was hugely evident in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2021, the mobile money industry had 316 live services, 1.35bn registered accounts, 346 million active accounts, US$53.9-billion in transaction volume and US$1-trillion in transaction value.
“Regionally, Africa contributed the following to the overall 2021 mobile money figures: 173 live services, 621 million registered accounts, 184 million active accounts, $36.7bn in transaction volume and US$701.4-bn in transaction value.”
The GSMA added:
- Eastern Africa contributed 59 live services, 296 million registered accounts, 102 million active accounts, US$24-billion in transaction volume and US$403.4-billion in transaction value.
- Western Africa contributed 69 live services, 237 million registered accounts, 58 million active accounts, US$9.3-billion in transaction volume and US$239.3-billion in transaction value.
- Central Africa contributed 19 live services, 60 million registered accounts, 19 million active accounts, US$2.9-billion in transaction volume and US$50.1-billon in transaction value.
- Southern Africa contributed 14 live services, 13 million registered accounts, 4 million active accounts, US$335-million in transaction volume and US$4.9-billion in transaction value.
- Northern Africa contributed 12 live services, 15 million registered accounts, 1 million active accounts, US$77-million in transaction volume and US$3.7-billion in transaction value.
Providing significant growth in merchant payments
Mobile money diversified its value proposition beyond person-to-person transfers and cash-in/cash-out transactions in 2021. It is now playing an important role in the daily lives of people and businesses, especially in low and middle-income countries (LMICs).
The growth of ecosystem transactions such as merchant payments, international remittances, bill payments and bulk disbursements, together with interoperable transactions, are accounting for a more significant share of the global mobile money transaction mix.
Merchant payments were instrumental in the growth of the mobile money industry in 2021.
The value of merchant payments almost doubled, reaching an average of US$5.5-billion in transactions per month.
Providers are demonstrating that they can attract businesses to their platform with better incentives, such as efficient remote on-boarding processes. For example, since Safaricom’s M-Pesa began allowing companies to register for an account online in Kenya, more than 18% of new merchants are self-on-boarding.
“2021 was the year mobile money started to really diversify to B2B services. Beyond traditional person-to-person transactions, such as transferring money to family or friends, the industry is now central in helping small businesses operate more efficiently, and serve their customers better” said Max Cuvellier, Head of Mobile for Development, GSMA.
According to the GSMA during the last decade, the mobile money industry has transformed from being a money transfer service to financially empowering people.
Research shows that since 2012, the number of mobile money deployments has almost doubled, increasing from 169 in 71 countries, to 316 in 98 countries.
The GSMA stated: “Despite the ongoing pandemic, the industry achieved double-digit growth across all key indicators, signalling sustained momentum and growth in the industry. In 2021, the mobile money industry processed a record US$1-trillion … (and) a substantial increase in the number of registered accounts, up 18% since 2020 reaching 1.35 billion globally.”
Increasing financial inclusion for women
Mobile money has also been a driving force for financial inclusion for the world’s most vulnerable, particularly women. Mobile money is empowering women to take more control over their finances and purchase goods that they urgently need.
Additionally, 44% of providers responding to the GSMA Global Adoption Survey now offer credit, savings or insurance products, creating opportunities for underserved individuals to invest in their livelihoods and futures.
With the gender gap in mobile money account ownership raging from 7% in Kenya to 71% in Pakistan – there remain some barriers to vulnerable people benefitting from mobile money.
The GSMA has found that owning a mobile phone is an obvious pre-requisite to using mobile money, and women across LMIC’s are 7% less likely than men to own a mobile phone. Overall, 143 million fewer women own a mobile than men. Additional barriers to mobile money access include a lack of awareness of mobile money and a deficit in perceived relevance, knowledge and skills.
While some progress has been made, the report makes clear that more must be done to address the mobile money gender gap across LMICs.
Concerted action is required from policymakers, the private sector, donors and other stakeholders to learn from success stories, address the issue and ensure that existing gender inequalities are not further entrenched, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Access to humanitarian aid
As highlighted in the report, in 2022, the number of people needing humanitarian assistance is predicted to soar to 274 million. Mobile money is expected to play an increasingly important role in both donations – where it makes delivery systems more efficient and transparent for humanitarian actors and donors – and the receipt of aid.
The UN Refugee Agency sent US$700-million in cash and value assistance (CVA) to 8.5 million recipients in 100 countries in 2020. They have set up digital payment programmes in 47 countries,15 of which use mobile money. In many humanitarian settings, the digitisation of CVA via mobile money has the potential to promote agency and dignity, and foster financial inclusion.
Telecom
ATICEN Commends NLC for Suspending Strike over Telecoms Tariff Hike

Comrade Adede John Williams, president of the Association of Telecommunications, Information Technology, Cable Satellite Network Operators and Allied Services Employers’of Nigeria (ATICEN), has commended the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for suspending the planned strike over tariff hike by Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for the Nigeria telecommunications operators.

Joe Ajaero, president, NLC,
He called on members and the general assembly of the Nigeria Labour Congress, telecoms subscribers, stakeholders, and all interested parties to see the need to accept the reality of things as they unfold.
He emphasised that rising inflation, energy costs, operational costs, and currency devaluation challenges faced in the country were the key reasons for the recent tariff hike, adding that the costs of importing telecommunications equipment, the maintenance support system, and unreliable electricity supply had affected the profits supposedly accrued to telecoms operators.
He, therefore, urged the telecommunications subscribers and Nigerians to always have the interests of the services of telecommunications operators at heart for the industry’s sustainability, as the industry regulator is always championing the consumer’s protection rights.
“So, it is important to know that the recent increase in telecoms tariff was approved according to its regulatory power under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA) to regulate and approve tariff rates and charges for telecommunications operators operating in Nigeria,” he said.
Williams equally acknowledged Dr. Bosun Tijani, minister, Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and Dr. Aminu Maina, EVC/CEO, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), for taking a proactive step in managing the NLC’s planned strike.
Telecom
Airtel Nigeria’s Communications Director Champions Workforce Transformation at PAU Career Fair

Femi Adeniran, the Director of Corporate Communications and CSR Airtel Nigeria, has called for a human centric approach to workforce transformation in the face of rapid technological advancements.
Mr. Adeniran made this statement during a panel discussion titled ‘Building a Workforce for the New Era: Talent, Technology, and Transformation’ at the 2025 Career Fair, hosted by Pan-Atlantic University on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at the University main campus.
He stressed the importance of organizations prioritizing clear corporate communication, continuous learning, and reverse mentoring to foster a resilient, future ready workforce, highlighting how crucial corporate communication is in enhancing workforce agility and driving innovation.
“Organizations that master transparent and engaging communication are better positioned to integrate digital tools seamlessly while maintaining a strong human connection. It’s not just about technology; it’s about empowering people through effective engagement, and purpose-driven messaging.” He said.
Mr. Adeniran also urged organizations to invest in upskilling and reskilling their workforce, advocating for a proactive approach to talent development that ensures employees remain relevant amid industry shifts.
He highlighted Airtel Nigeria’s commitment to nurturing talent through initiatives such as the “Open Talent Economy” an ambitious initiative aimed at preparing undergraduates for the evolving demands of the modern workforce.
The panel discussion brought together leading industry experts, including Olabisi Omoregie (Head, Corporate Services, Fast Credit Ltd) and Abike Wesey (General Manager, HR & Admin, Mutual Benefits Assurance).
Moderated by Dr. Ruth Karachi Benson Oji, the discussion delved into the impact of artificial intelligence, automation, and digital transformation on employment. Panelists emphasized that while technology is reshaping job functions, human adaptability, emotional intelligence, and strategic foresight are still crucial.
The career fair reaffirms Pan-Atlantic University’s commitment to fostering meaningful engagements that bridge the gap between academia and industry. The institution remains dedicated to empowering students and professionals with the insights needed to excel in the evolving job market.
Telecom
MTN mPulse Inspires Excellence at Glorious Covenant School in Rivers State

MTN Nigeria’s mPulse team recently visited Glorious Covenant School in Rivers State to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Ikenna Ikechukwu, the 2024 MTN mPulse Spelling Bee champion.
The event, held on January 22, 2025, was not just a recognition of Ikenna’s hard work but a call to students everywhere to aim higher and reach for greatness.
The event highlighted the transformative power of education and innovation. At the 2024 Spelling Bee Grand Finale in November in Lagos, Ikenna emerged the Spelling Bee champion title, and was awarded ₦5 million scholarship, a laptop, a smartphone, and an mPulse goody bag.
His win also extended to his school, which received 10 laptops and 10 MTN 5G routers, underscoring MTN’s commitment to enhancing digital education and closing the digital divide.
“This competition isn’t just about spelling words; it’s about unlocking the potential of young Nigerians and inspiring them to achieve greatness,” said Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria. “We hope to see more students step into the spotlight like Ikenna.”
For the students and teachers at Glorious Covenant School, the visit was more than a celebration—it was a challenge to dream big.
Many of the students shared aspirations of participating in future editions of the Spelling Bee, encouraged by Ikenna’s inspiring story. “Winning this competition has changed my life,” said Ikenna. “I hope my journey motivates other students to work hard and believe in their potential.”
By visiting Glorious Covenant School, MTN not only celebrated Ikenna’s success but also reinforced its commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators. Through initiatives like the mPulse Spelling Bee, MTN continues to inspire Nigerian youth to pursue excellence and achieve their dreams.
- News3 days ago
NOTAP to Relaunch Fruit Juice Production Initiative
- E-Financial2 days ago
Fidelity Bank Raises ₦232Bn in First Phase of Capital Raising
- Telecom3 days ago
TUC Threatens Nationwide Strike over Telecom Tariff Hike
- Broadcasting3 days ago
TikTok Deletes over 2m Videos in Nigeria for Policy Violations
- E-Business2 days ago
UK Orders Apple to Create Backdoor for Encrypted iCloud Data
- E-Financial3 days ago
FG Seeks Fresh $580m Loan from World Bank
- Telecom2 days ago
Airtel Nigeria’s Communications Director Champions Workforce Transformation at PAU Career Fair
- Telecom2 days ago
ATICEN Commends NLC for Suspending Strike over Telecoms Tariff Hike