Eastern Africa, celebrated as the “Cradle of Mankind,” offers breathtaking contrasts—from soaring mountains to sprawling savannas. Home to 18 nations and population of 512 million people, its regional economic leaders, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Tanzania, are driving dynamic growth.
The region’s E-commerce market, valued at 21.6 billion USD, is on track to surpass 57 billion USD by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.4%. This rapid expansion is fueled by increasing mobile and internet access and as digital adoption accelerates, Eastern Africa presents a prime opportunity for merchants and investors looking to enter one of the world’s fastest-growing digital economies.
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Population 512 M -
Land size 6,667 M KM² -
GDP 580.7 Bn USD -
Median age 18.3 Yr
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E-commerce market revenue 21.6 Bn USD -
E-commerce growth 27.4%
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People with mobile phone (% age 15+)66%
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People with internet access (% age 15+)35.9%
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People with bank account (% age 15+)33.8%
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People with credit card (% age 15+)2.3%
- Mobile Money users (248.3 M)
- Total population >15 years
Here are some key opportunities for international merchants interested in the East African market:
● Tanzania with its population of over 70 million, is a key growth market for E-commerce in Africa. The country’s digital commerce sector is currently valued at 2.7 billion USD, growing at over 27.6% (CAGR) annually. Additionally, Tanzania has one of the highest adoption rate for mobile money – more than 95% of the population over the age of 15 use mobile money solutions. Learn more about opportunities for your business in Tanzania.
● Uganda, with a population of over 50 million, is a fast-growing E-commerce market in Eastern Africa. Valued at over 1.9 billion USD, the sector is expanding rapidly, driven by increasing internet penetration and a young, digital-savvy population. Mobile money dominates transactions, with 95% of adults relying on services of mobile money, making it the key payment method for online businesses. Learn more about opportunities for your business in Uganda.
