Top 10 Most Used And Most Popular Apps In Africa

Africa has garnered recognition as a continent at the forefront of mobile technology adoption. It is high time we acknowledge the commendable contributions of African app developers and entrepreneurs. The significant progress witnessed in recent years has propelled Africa to the forefront in both mobile usage and e-commerce. In countries such as South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria, a staggering 90% of the population possess a mobile phone. Additionally, several other nations have taken the lead in conceiving innovative applications aimed at improving the lives of Africans. This has given rise to a notable array of popular apps in Africa.

Most Used And Most Popular Apps In Africa

• IROKO Tv
• Esoko
• HelloFood
• Leti Arts
• Safaricom M-Ledger
• Vula Mobile
• 2Go
• Ramlocator
• 1xBet
• SnapScan

1. IROKO Tv

IROKOtv signifies a shift away from traditional television services, where viewers were subjected to predefined schedules. This Nigerian film and TV series app empowers users to select their desired programs from an extensive library of over 6,000 Nigerian and Ghanaian movies, along with a curated collection of Bollywood, Hollywood, and Korean films.

Upon registration and subscription, users gain access to their preferred movies and TV shows at a nominal monthly fee of approximately $2.50. Notably, the app permits offline streaming on Android devices. It can be downloaded from the Google Play Store at no cost.

2. Esoko

Given that agriculture stands as a cornerstone of Africa's economy, it is only fitting that technology bridges the gap between farmers and the industry. The Esoko communication app serves as a vital platform for connecting enterprises, initiatives, NGOs, and governments with farmers. Beyond communication, it now encompasses a wealth of agricultural content and on-ground deployment services.

Esoko serves as a gateway to services encompassing marketing, product sourcing, mobile money solutions, national farmer clubs, and statistical offerings. Operating in countries including Ghana, Kenya, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Benin, Madagascar, and Mozambique, Esoko's apps and services become accessible upon initial registration on their website.

3. HelloFood

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In a fast-paced world where time constraints often impede traditional cooking or dining out, HelloFood steps in to provide convenience. This app enables users in Ghana to effortlessly order meals with a simple tap. Users can peruse a diverse array of restaurants based on their location, and even customize their meals with various sauces and toppings.

Recently hailed as the Best Mobile App Company of the Year at the sixth Ghana Telecom Awards, HelloFood is available for free download via the Google Play Store, iTunes Store, and Microsoft platforms in Nigeria, Morocco, Kenya, Ghana, Senegal, the Ivory Coast, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Algeria, and Egypt.

4. Leti Arts

The surge in popularity of mobile gaming aligns with the proliferation of smartphones across the continent. For gamers seeking an authentic African gaming experience, Leti Arts emerges as a pivotal app. Founded by Ghanaians Eyram Tawi and Wesley Kirinya in 2009, the company specializes in crafting cross-platform interactive media based on African history and mythology, including mobile games and digital comics.

Their latest offering, Africa's Mythology, draws inspiration from folktales and ancient legends spanning the continent. The game is currently receiving commendation on the Google Play Store for its engaging narrative rooted in African mythology.

5. Safaricom M-Ledger

Driven by the needs of M-PESA users, the Safaricom M-Ledger app was developed to facilitate seamless tracking and monitoring of transactions. M-PESA, a widely utilized microfinance and cash transfer program, was introduced in 2007 by Vodafone for Safaricom and Vodacom. Subscribers leverage this service for cash deposits, sending money to mobile numbers or bank accounts, withdrawals, and utility payments.

The Safaricom M-Ledger furnishes users with comprehensive transaction records from their M-PESA activities, stored directly on their devices. This innovative app creates a database by meticulously scanning every SMS associated with M-PESA transactions. It is available for download at no cost from both the Safaricom App store and Google Play Store.

6. Vula Mobile

Hailing from South Africa, the Vula Mobile medical app serves as a bridge linking general healthcare practitioners with specialists. This platform empowers healthcare professionals to refer patients, seek expert advice, access information, and conduct diagnostic tests – all via their mobile devices. This results in more precise diagnoses and tailored treatment recommendations.

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Vula Mobile streamlines the current referral process utilized by healthcare professionals. Notably, it was honored with the 2015 MTN App of the Year Awards for its innovative contribution. The app is readily available on iTunes for no charge.

7. 2Go

In the realm of communication, mobile messaging apps have taken center stage, with MXit and WhatsApp leading the charge. Another noteworthy contender in this space is 2Go, which provides users the means to connect with friends, craft user profiles, engage in chat rooms to meet new people, and even partake in virtual space games.

Although originally conceived in South Africa by Alan Wolff and Ashley Peters, Nigeria boasts the largest user base in Africa, exceeding 10 million active users. Overall, 2Go commands a staggering 20 million active users across Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria. Accessible via the 2Go website or the Google Play Store, it has firmly entrenched itself in the realm of mobile messaging.

8. Ramlocator

While not an everyday app, Ramlocator addresses a unique cultural practice in Nigeria – the tradition of enjoying well-prepared ram during the Sallah holidays. This app facilitates the sharing of these gatherings on its platform.

Users seeking to attend such gatherings can utilize the app to locate events in close proximity, provided they authorize their location on Ramlocator. Once discovered, interested attendees can request an invitation from the host.

9. 1xBet

1xBet, a Russian-owned company, has emerged as one of the premier sports betting platforms in Africa and beyond. Its popularity stems from offering an extensive array of less common athletic events, including cricket, tennis, and horse racing. Notably, the 1xBet betting app also provides live streaming capabilities, enabling users to watch their preferred sporting events in real-time.

With a global footprint, 1xBet proudly sponsors La Liga's Barcelona Football Club and the Italian Serie A competition. The platform is available in several African nations, including Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia, with users able to download the mobile app for Android and iOS devices from the 1xBet website.

10. SnapScan

Crafted by Kobus Ehlers, SnapScan catapulted to prominence following its 2013 launch, establishing itself as one of South Africa's leading mobile payment solutions. Users of SnapScan experience a seamless payment process, devoid of cumbersome payment methods.

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The app simplifies payments by enabling users to scan a unique QR code, known as a SnapCode, using their phone's camera. It accepts most international credit cards and is compatible with all South African banks. Moreover, the SnapScan app is available for free use.

In conclusion, in an era dominated by smartphones, mobile applications have taken center stage. While many employ smartphone apps for leisurely pursuits like gaming, weather updates, or sports tracking, Africans have leveraged this technology to access a wealth of information at their fingertips. This compendium showcases the leading smartphone applications that have gained traction in Africa.