Kenya's mobile money sector experienced significant growth in the third quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, with subscriptions increasing from 51.4 million to 53.4 million between January and March 2026, according to the Communications Authority of Kenya. This represents a quarterly growth rate of 3.9%, amounting to approximately two million new subscriptions.

According to the latest TCRA report, Tanzania's telecom subscriptions reached 111.9 million in the first quarter of 2026, with significant growth in mobile, internet, and mobile money services. 5G population coverage increased to 32.83%, while internet data traffic rose by 15.3% to 932 petabytes. Mobile money accounts reached 80.98 million, internet subscriptions hit 58.9 million, and smartphone penetration rose to 42.5%, indicating a strong demand for broadband and digital financial services.

Safaricom's smartphone factory in Kenya assembled approximately 700,000 devices in its first year of operation, contributing to increased access to technology in the region. The factory also created around 300 jobs, highlighting the impact of local manufacturing on employment. This development is part of a broader narrative focusing on connectivity rather than just device specifications, according to Vodacom Group's FY2026 integrated report.

Kenya's pay TV market experienced a decline of 85,177 subscribers from January to March 2026, with GOtv losing the most subscribers. In contrast, StarTimes and Azam reported growth during the same period, according to Tech-ish.

Vodacom's FY2026 integrated report highlights the evolution of its My OneApp, which aims to create a super app ecosystem in Kenya. This development follows the success of Safaricom's M-PESA, which has transformed mobile money services from basic transfers to a comprehensive economic platform. My OneApp is set to incorporate 221 mini apps and has already attracted 9.4 million users, marking a significant shift in mobile financial services.

According to TechTrends KE, South African firms have announced over Sh400 billion in acquisitions, raising questions about their investment focus on Kenya. This trend is attributed to Kenya's economic growth, as East Africa is reportedly outperforming many larger African economies. The recent transactions indicate a strategic interest in the region by South African companies.