(Ecofin Agency) - The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) recorded 6.4 million new mobile subscribers in 2023, according to data from the Congolese Post and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (ARPTC). The number of mobile subscriptions rose from 49.8 million at the end of 2022 to 56.2 million by December 31, 2023, marking a 12.8% increase.

The mobile penetration rate increased from 52.35% to 59.1% during this period. Despite this growth, which has steadily risen from 37.3% in 2013, the penetration rate remains relatively low given the DRC's large population of 95.2 million. The actual figures may be lower, as some Congolese own multiple SIM cards, each counted as a separate subscription.

Aware of these challenges, the Congolese government is ramping up initiatives with the private sector to connect every citizen nationwide. In June, a partnership was signed between the Congolese Fiber Optic Company (SOCOF SA) and the Agency for Coordination and Monitoring of Collaboration Agreements (APCSC) to deploy fiber optic along roads. The government is also working on operationalizing the universal service fund.

The expansion of mobile phone services in the DRC is expected to facilitate the adoption of related technologies such as mobile internet and mobile money, essential for digital and financial inclusion in an era of rapid digital transformation. By the end of 2023, mobile internet penetration stood at 31.5%, while mobile money penetration was at 23.3%.