African 

Communications 

Quick Reference 

Guide

UNCLASSIFIED

Headquarters, U.S. Africa Command

Directorate for Command, Control, Communications, 

and Computers (J6)

Edition 1.5

12 February 2016

UNCLASSIFIED
African Communications Quick Reference Guide
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

1

Document Information

Project Name: African Communications Reference Architecture

Prepared By: J Yule, J625 – Strategy and Architecture Branch, 

Capability and Assurance Division, C4S 

Directorate

Document Version No: 1.5

Title: African Communications Quick Reference Guide Document Version Date: 12 Feb 16

Reviewed By: D Fisher, J625 Branch Chief Review Date: 23 Feb 16

Document Version History

Version

Number

Version

Date Revised By Description Filename

0.1 4 Sep 14 J Yule Initial draft. 

1.0 12 Sep 14 J Yule Initial Delivery

1.1 12 Oct 14 J Yule Added Power and Plug Type 

1.1.1 25 Nov 14 J Yule Corrected page headers

1.2 12 Dec 14 J Yule Added Dialing and Internet Code Table. 

Added Help Numbers. 

1.3 27 Jan 15 J Yule Changed title. Final approved version

1.4 26 Jun 15 J Yule First annual revision. Minor updates.

1.5 12 Feb 16 J Yule Added travel precautions in Africa
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Table of Contents

J6 Endorsement Memo.................................................................................................................................5

Purpose .........................................................................................................................................................6

How to Use Your GSM Device in Africa.........................................................................................................7

Help Numbers and Common Issues..............................................................................................................7

Power and Plug Types...................................................................................................................................8

Security Tips While Travelling .......................................................................................................................9

Algeria .........................................................................................................................................................10

Angola .........................................................................................................................................................11

Benin ...........................................................................................................................................................12

Botswana.....................................................................................................................................................13

Burkina Faso................................................................................................................................................14

Burundi........................................................................................................................................................15

Cameroon....................................................................................................................................................16

Cabo Verde (Cape Verde)............................................................................................................................17

Central African Republic .............................................................................................................................18

Chad ............................................................................................................................................................19

Comoros......................................................................................................................................................20

Congo, Democratic Republic of the ............................................................................................................21

Congo, Republic of the................................................................................................................................22

Cote d’Ivoire................................................................................................................................................23

Djibouti........................................................................................................................................................24

Equatorial Guinea .......................................................................................................................................25

Eritrea..........................................................................................................................................................26

Ethiopia .......................................................................................................................................................27

Gabon..........................................................................................................................................................28

Gambia, The................................................................................................................................................29

Ghana..........................................................................................................................................................30

Guinea.........................................................................................................................................................31

Guinea-Bissau..............................................................................................................................................32
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Kenya...........................................................................................................................................................33

Lesotho........................................................................................................................................................34

Liberia..........................................................................................................................................................35

Libya ............................................................................................................................................................36

Madagascar.................................................................................................................................................37

Malawi.........................................................................................................................................................38

Mali .............................................................................................................................................................39

Mauritania...................................................................................................................................................40

Mauritius.....................................................................................................................................................41

Morocco......................................................................................................................................................42

Mozambique ...............................................................................................................................................43

Namibia.......................................................................................................................................................44

Niger............................................................................................................................................................45

Nigeria.........................................................................................................................................................46

Rwanda .......................................................................................................................................................47

Sao Tome and Principe ...............................................................................................................................48

Senegal........................................................................................................................................................49

Seychelles....................................................................................................................................................50

Sierra Leone ................................................................................................................................................51

Somalia........................................................................................................................................................52

South Africa.................................................................................................................................................53

South Sudan................................................................................................................................................54

Sudan ..........................................................................................................................................................55

Swaziland ....................................................................................................................................................56

Tanzania ......................................................................................................................................................57

Togo ............................................................................................................................................................58

Tunisia.........................................................................................................................................................59

Uganda........................................................................................................................................................61

Western Sahara...........................................................................................................................................62

Zambia.........................................................................................................................................................63

Zimbabwe....................................................................................................................................................64

Table 1 – Plug, Socket & Voltage by Country..............................................................................................66
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Table 2 – Dialing and Internet Codes..........................................................................................................67

Table 3 – Plugs and Sockets Types..............................................................................................................60

List of Sources.............................................................................................................................................61
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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J6 Endorsement Memo
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Purpose

This document is intended to provide U.S. Africa Command staff a quick reference to 

communications capabilities on the continent of Africa. It includes general information 

on each country’s communications infrastructure and maturity, along with information on 

a traveler’s ability to use USAFRICOM provided communications devices (i.e., 

Blackberries and Laptops) in each country.

This reference will be expanded to include additional information as sources are found 

and information needs are identified. Users are invited, and encouraged, to make 

suggestions for improvement to:

USAFRICOM Directorate for Command, Control, Communications, and 

Computers (J6)

Attn: Strategy and Architecture Branch (J625)

Unit 29951

APO AE, 09751

DSN: 314-421-3473

Comm: 0049 711-729-3473

john.w.yule.ctr@mail.mil or john.w.yule.ctr@mail.smil.mil

Information presented is current as of 24 June 2015 and is assumed to be free of bias.
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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How to Use Your GSM Device in Africa

Specific Information is provided for travelers with USAFRICOM issued GSM enabled devices (Blackberries

and GSM enabled laptop computers). This information is taken from the T-Mobile web site and was 

current at the time it was collected, but a traveler should confirm the data for their destination before 

departure at https://www.t-mobile.de/roaming-laender/. 

A sample entry is shown here:

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Djezzi Y

Wataniya Telecom N

Help Numbers and Common Issues

Issue TCO 119 T-Mobile

No outbound calls X X

No inbound calls X X

No data coverage X X

APN Error X X

Excess fee notification X X

DEE Email won’t sync/update X X

DEE account no longer displays X X

Quarantine message in Hub (Blackberry 10 devices only) X X

“Contact Administrator” message X X

Cannot connect to server X X

First point of contact for any issue should be your Directorate Telephone Control Officer (TCO). 

USAFRICOM TCO: 0049 (0)711-729-4242 or email to africom.stuttgart.acj6.list.j6-tco@mail.mil

119 Help Desk: 0049 (0)631-411119

T-Mobile: 0049 (0)228-939-1069

Providers: Your T-Mobile GSM device is supported 

by these service providers in the country.

Data: Indicates whether data service is supported by the 

provider or not. If ‘N’ then only voice service is supported.
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Power and Plug Types

Power in Africa is generally 220V / 50 cycle, with the exception of Liberia which runs 110 V / 60 cycle. A 

wide range of power plugs are used across the continent. The chart below shows the power plugs and 

outlets you may encounter. Power and plug types are listed for each country, and in Table 1 at the back 

of this guide.

Type A Type B Type C

Type D Type E Type F

Type G Type J Type K

Type L Type M Type N
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Security Tips While Travelling

 

Before travelling, limit or minimize any data taken to include removable media such as CDs, DVDs and 

USB drives. Don’t take any electronic equipment you don’t need during your travel. Consider use of a 

loaner cellphone or laptop to limit the loss of Government and personal information if the device is lost, 

stolen or confiscated by officials. Perform a full device back up and store in a secure location while you 

are away. Ensure your devices have the latest security patches, applications updates, and antivirus 

definitions. Use strong passwords on all devices. Check the latest travel advice at 

http://travel.state.gov, and complete the “Foreign Travel Questionnaire” on the USAFRICOM Portal 

(https://portal.usafricom.smil.mil/tools/ftq/ftq.aspx) if you are SCI cleared.

You must remember that the rules are different when travelling in a foreign country. You are subject 

to the local laws, not US or German law. Your device, whether personal or Government owned, may be 

subject to involuntary official governmental review, complete duplication, or possibly even confiscation. 

Your personal privacy may not be respected abroad. Assume that even nominally private spaces are 

being monitored (i.e., hotel rooms, taxi cabs, rental cars, etc.). Also assume that anything you send or 

receive on your device will be intercepted! 

Be careful how you use your mobile device. Avoid open and free WiFi connections (airport, hotel, 

restaurants, etc.), and only turn on WiFi and Bluetooth when actually in use. Be wary of connecting to 

unknown networks. Turn off any automatic location/check-in applications or services. Power off 

devices when not in use. Do not use public charging stations! Assume that all CDs, DVDs, USB drives, 

email attachments, links, or other media are infected. 

Keep physical control of your devices. Never leave your devices unattended or unsecure. Put them 

away when not in use. If you have a laptop, use a cable lock. Avoid transporting devices in checked 

luggage when travelling. In certain areas, if you lose sight of your device, assume it has been 

compromised or a system image taken. Be aware of your surroundings when using any device.

When you return home, assume your devices and any media given you are ‘dirty’. Conduct a full scan 

of devices before connecting them to a trusted network. Contact your Work Group Administrator 

before reconnecting Government laptops to the network. Contact your Data Transfer Agent to scan all 

CDs, DVDs, USB drives, or other media received before introducing them to a trusted device. Change 

any passwords used during your trip. Monitor your devices for any unusual activities, or changes in 

settings (system, email, social media profiles, etc.). These may indicate your system, or your accounts, 

have been compromised. Report any and all suspicious activity on either your personal or government 

device to Command Security or the local Counterintelligence Office.
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Algeria

Telephones – Main lines in use

3.2 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 49

Telephones – mobile cellular

37.692 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 32

Telephone systems

General assessment: privatization of Algeria's telecommunications sector began in 2000; three 

mobile cellular licenses have been issued and, in 2005, a consortium led by Egypt's Orascom Telecom 

won a 15-year license to build and operate a fixed-line network in Algeria; the license will allow Orascom 

to develop high-speed data and other specialized services and contribute to meeting the large unfulfilled 

demand for basic residential telephony; Internet broadband services began in 2003

Domestic: a limited network of fixed lines with a teledensity of less than 10 telephones per 100 

persons has been offset by the rapid increase in mobile-cellular subscribership; in 2011, mobile-cellular 

teledensity was roughly 100 telephones per 100 persons

International: country code - 213; landing point for the SEA-ME-WE-4 fiber-optic submarine 

cable system that provides links to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia; microwave radio relay to Italy, 

France, Spain, Morocco, and Tunisia; coaxial cable to Morocco and Tunisia; participant in Medarabtel; 

satellite earth stations - 51 (Intelsat, Intersputnik, and Arabsat) (2011)

Broadcast media: state-run Radio-Television Algerienne operates the broadcast media and carries 

programming in Arabic, Berber dialects, and French; use of satellite dishes is widespread, providing easy 

access to European and Arab satellite stations; state-run radio operates several national networks and 

roughly 40 regional radio stations (2007)

Internet country code: .dz

Internet hosts:

676 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 178

Internet users:

4.7 million (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 49

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Algerie Telecom N

Wataniya Telecom Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / F
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Angola

Telephones – Main lines in use

303,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 116

Telephones – mobile cellular

9.8 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 80

Telephone systems

General assessment: limited system; state-owned telecom had monopoly for fixed-lines until 

2005; demand outstripped capacity, prices were high, and services poor; Telecom Namibia, through an 

Angolan company, became the first private licensed operator in Angola's fixed-line telephone network; 

by 2010, the number of fixed-line providers had expanded to 5; Angola Telecom established mobilecellular service in Luanda in 1993 and the network has been extended to larger towns; a privately 

owned, mobile-cellular service provider began operations in 2001

Domestic: only about two fixed-lines per 100 persons; mobile-cellular teledensity about 50 

telephones per 100 persons in 2011

International: country code - 244; landing point for the SAT-3/WASC fiber-optic submarine 

cable that provides connectivity to Europe and Asia; satellite earth stations - 29 (2009) 

Broadcast media: state controls all broadcast media with nationwide reach; state-owned Televisao 

Popular de Angola (TPA) provides terrestrial TV service on 2 channels; a third TPA channel is available via 

cable and satellite; TV subscription services are available; state-owned Radio Nacional de Angola (RNA) 

broadcasts on 5 stations; about a half dozen private radio stations broadcast locally (2008)

Internet country code: .ao

Internet hosts:

20,703 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 116

Internet users:

606,700 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 114

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

UNITEL Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C 
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Benin

Telephones - main lines in use: 

156,700 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 134 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

8.408 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 90 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: inadequate system of open-wire, microwave radio relay, and cellular 

connections; fixed-line network characterized by aging, deteriorating equipment

Domestic: fixed-line teledensity only about 2 per 100 persons; spurred by the presence of 

multiple mobile-cellular providers, cellular telephone subscribership has been increasing rapidly 

International: country code - 229; landing point for the SAT-3/WASC fiber-optic submarine cable 

that provides connectivity to Europe and Asia; long distance fiber-optic links with Togo, Burkina Faso, 

Niger, and Nigeria; satellite earth stations - 7 (Intelsat-Atlantic Ocean) (2008) 

Broadcast media: State-run Office de Radiodiffusion et de Television du Benin (ORTB) operates a TV 

station with multiple channels giving it a wide broadcast reach; several privately owned TV stations 

broadcast from Cotonou; satellite TV subscription service is available; state-owned radio, under ORTB 

control, includes a national station supplemented by a number of regional stations; substantial number 

of privately owned radio broadcast stations; transmissions of a few international broadcasters are 

available on FM in Cotonou (2007)

Internet country code: .bj

Internet hosts: 

491 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 183 

Internet users: 

200,100 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 139 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Etisalat N

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Botswana

Telephones - main lines in use: 

160,500 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 133 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

3.082 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 129 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: Botswana is participating in regional development efforts; expanding 

fully digital system with fiber-optic cables linking the major population centers in the east as well as a 

system of open-wire lines, microwave radio relays links, and radiotelephone communication stations

Domestic: fixed-line teledensity has declined in recent years and now stands at roughly 7 

telephones per 100 persons; mobile-cellular teledensity now pushing 140 telephones per 100 persons 

International: country code - 267; international calls are made via satellite, using 

international direct dialing; 2 international exchanges; digital microwave radio relay links to Namibia, 

Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: 2 TV stations - 1 state-owned and 1 privately owned; privately owned satellite TV 

subscription service is available; 2 state-owned national radio stations; 3 privately owned radio stations 

broadcast locally (2007)

Internet country code: .bw

Internet hosts: 

1,806 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 163 

Internet users: 

120,000 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 150 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

BTC Mobile Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz D/G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Burkina Faso

Telephones - main lines in use: 

141,400 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 138 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

9.98 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 79 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: system includes microwave radio relay, open-wire, and radiotelephone 

communication stations; in 2006 the government sold a 51 percent stake in the national telephone 

company and ultimately plans to retain only a 23 percent stake in the company

Domestic: fixed-line connections stand at less than 1 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular usage, 

fostered by multiple providers, is increasing rapidly from a low base 

International: country code - 226; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: 2 TV stations - 1 state-owned and 1 privately owned; state-owned radio runs a 

national and regional network; substantial number of privately owned radio stations; transmissions of 

several international broadcasters available in Ouagadougou (2007)

Internet country code: .bf

Internet hosts: 

1,795 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 164 

Internet users: 

178,100 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 140 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Airtel N

Telemob N

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Burundi

Telephones - main lines in use: 

17,400 (2012)

country comparison to the world: 191 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

2.247 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 140 

Telephone system: 

 General assessment: sparse system of open-wire, radiotelephone communications, and lowcapacity microwave radio relays

Domestic: telephone density one of the lowest in the world; fixed-line connections stand at well 

less than 1 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular usage is increasing but remains at roughly 20 per 100 

persons 

International: country code - 257; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: State-controlled La Radiodiffusion et Television Nationale de Burundi (RTNB) 

operates the lone TV station and the only national radio network; about 10 privately owned radio 

stations; transmissions of several international broadcasters are available in Bujumbura (2007)

Internet country code: .bi

Internet hosts: 

229 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 198 

Internet users: 

157,800 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 143 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Africell Burundi N

Econet Wireless Burundi N

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Cameroon

Telephones - main lines in use: 

 737,400 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 88 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

 13.1 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 64 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: system includes cable, microwave radio relay, and tropospheric scatter; 

Camtel, the monopoly provider of fixed-line service, provides connections for only about 3 per 100 

persons; equipment is old and outdated, and connections with many parts of the country are unreliable

Domestic: mobile-cellular usage, in part a reflection of the poor condition and general 

inadequacy of the fixed-line network, has increased sharply, reaching a subscribership base of 50 per 

100 persons 

International: country code - 237; landing point for the SAT-3/WASC fiber-optic submarine cable 

that provides connectivity to Europe and Asia; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: Government maintains tight control over broadcast media; state-owned Cameroon 

Radio Television (CRTV), broadcasting on both a TV and radio network, was the only officially recognized 

and fully licensed broadcaster until August 2007 when the government finally issued licenses to 2 

private TV broadcasters and 1 private radio broadcaster; about 70 privately owned, unlicensed radio 

stations operating but are subject to closure at any time; foreign news services required to partner with 

state-owned national station (2007)

Internet country code: .cm

Internet hosts: 

 10,207 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 134 

Internet users: 

 749,600 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 104 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

MTN Y

Orange N

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Cabo Verde (Cape Verde)

Telephones - main lines in use: 

 70,200 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 154 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

425,300 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 171 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: effective system, extensive modernization from 1996-2000 following 

partial privatization in 1995

Domestic: major service provider is Cabo Verde Telecom (CVT); fiber-optic ring, completed in 

2001, links all islands providing Internet access and ISDN services; cellular service introduced in 1998; 

broadband services launched in 2004 

International: country code - 238; landing point for the Atlantis-2 fiber-optic transatlantic 

telephone cable that provides links to South America, Senegal, and Europe; HF radiotelephone to 

Senegal and Guinea-Bissau; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: State-run TV and radio broadcast network plus a growing number of private 

broadcasters; Portuguese public TV and radio services for Africa are available; transmissions of a few 

international broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .cv

Internet hosts: 

 38 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 216 

Internet users: 

150,000 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 144 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

T+ Y

CVMovel Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / F
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Central African Republic

Telephones - main lines in use: 

5,600 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 207 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

 1.07 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 157 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: network consists principally of microwave radio relay and low-capacity, 

low-powered radiotelephone communication

Domestic: limited telephone service with less than 1 fixed-line connection per 100 persons; 

spurred by the presence of multiple mobile-cellular service providers, cellular usage is increasing from a 

low base; most fixed-line and mobile-cellular telephone services are concentrated in Bangui 

International: country code - 236; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: Government-owned network, Radiodiffusion Television Centrafricaine, provides 

domestic TV broadcasting; licenses for 2 private TV stations are pending; state-owned radio network is 

supplemented by a small number of privately owned broadcast stations as well as a few community 

radio stations; transmissions of at least 2 international broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .cf

Internet hosts: 

20 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 221 

Internet users: 

22,600 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 188 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Orange N

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Chad

Telephones - main lines in use: 

29,900 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 175 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

4.2 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 119 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: inadequate system of radiotelephone communication stations with high 

costs and low telephone density

Domestic: fixed-line connections for less than 1 per 100 persons coupled with mobile-cellular 

subscribership base of only about 35 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 235; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: 1 state-owned TV station; state-owned radio network, Radiodiffusion Nationale 

Tchadienne (RNT), operates national and regional stations; about 10 private radio stations; some 

stations rebroadcast programs from international broadcasters (2007)

Internet country code: .td

Internet hosts: 

6 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 229 

Internet users: 

168,100 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 141 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Millicom Y

Zain Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / D / E / F
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Comoros

Telephones - main lines in use: 

 24,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 180 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

 250,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 177 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: sparse system of microwave radio relay and HF radiotelephone 

communication stations

Domestic: fixed-line connections only about 3 per 100 persons; mobile cellular usage about 30 

per 100 persons 

International: country code - 269; landing point for the EASSy fiber-optic submarine cable 

system connecting East Africa with Europe and North America; HF radiotelephone communications to 

Madagascar and Reunion (2010) 

Broadcast media: National state-owned TV station and a TV station run by Anjouan regional 

government; national state-owned radio; regional governments on the islands of Grande Comore and 

Anjouan each operate a radio station; a few independent and small community radio stations operate 

on the islands of Grande Comore and Moheli, and these two islands have access to Mayotte Radio and 

French TV (2007)

Internet country code: .km

Internet hosts: 

14 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 225 

Internet users: 

24,300 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 183 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Comores Telecom N

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Congo, Democratic Republic of the

Telephones - main lines in use: 

58,200 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 160 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

 19.487 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 52 

Telephone system: 

 General assessment: barely adequate wire and microwave radio relay service in and between 

urban areas; domestic satellite system with 14 earth stations; inadequate fixed line infrastructure

Domestic: state-owned operator providing less than 1 fixed-line connection per 100 persons; 

given the backdrop of a wholly inadequate fixed-line infrastructure, the use of mobile-cellular services 

has surged and mobile teledensity is roughly 20 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 243; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: State-owned TV broadcast station with near national coverage; more than a dozen 

privately owned TV stations with 2 having near national coverage; 2 state-owned radio stations are 

supplemented by more than 100 private radio stations; transmissions of at least 2 international 

broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .cd

Internet hosts: 

2,515 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 159 

Internet users: 

290,000 (2008)

Country comparison to the world: 129 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Celtel (Zain) Y

Congo-China Telecom N

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / D / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

22

Congo, Republic of the

Telephones - main lines in use: 

14,900 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 193 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

4.283 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 118 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: primary network consists of microwave radio relay and coaxial cable with 

services barely adequate for government use; key exchanges are in Brazzaville, Pointe-Noire, and 

Loubomo; intercity lines frequently out of order

Domestic: fixed-line infrastructure inadequate providing less than 1 connection per 100 

persons; in the absence of an adequate fixed line infrastructure, mobile-cellular subscribership has 

surged to 90 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 242; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: 1 state-owned TV and 3 state-owned radio stations; several privately owned TV and 

radio stations; satellite TV service is available; rebroadcasts of several international broadcasters are 

available (2007)

Internet country code: .cg

Internet hosts: 

 45 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 215 

Internet users: 

245,200 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 133 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

MTN Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

23

Cote d’Ivoire

Telephones - main lines in use: 

268,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 121 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

19.827 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 49 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: well-developed by African standards; telecommunications sector 

privatized in late 1990s and operational fixed-lines have increased since that time with two fixed-line 

providers operating over open-wire lines, microwave radio relay, and fiber-optics; 90% digitalized

Domestic: with multiple mobile-cellular service providers competing in the market, usage has 

increased sharply to roughly 80 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 225; landing point for the SAT-3/WASC fiber-optic submarine cable 

that provides connectivity to Europe and Asia; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 

Indian Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: 2 state-owned TV stations; no private terrestrial TV stations, but satellite TV 

subscription service is available; 2 state-owned radio stations; some private radio stations; transmissions 

of several international broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .ci

Internet hosts: 

9,115 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 137 

Internet users: 

967,300 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 101 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Atlantique Cellulaire Y

Orange Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

24

Djibouti

Telephones - main lines in use: 

 18,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 190 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

209,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 181 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: telephone facilities in the city of Djibouti are adequate, as are the 

microwave radio relay connections to outlying areas of the country

Domestic: Djibouti Telecom is the sole provider of telecommunications services and utilizes 

mostly a microwave radio relay network; fiber-optic cable is installed in the capital; rural areas 

connected via wireless local loop radio systems; mobile cellular coverage is primarily limited to the area 

in and around Djibouti city 

International: country code - 253; landing point for the SEA-ME-WE-3 and EASSy fiber-optic 

submarine cable systems providing links to Asia, the Middle East, Europe and North America; satellite 

earth stations - 2 (1 Intelsat - Indian Ocean and 1 Arabsat); Medarabtel regional microwave radio relay 

telephone network (2009) 

Broadcast media: State-owned Radiodiffusion-Television de Djibouti (RTD) operates the sole terrestrial 

TV station as well as the only 2 domestic radio networks; no private TV or radio stations; transmissions 

of several international broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .dj

Internet hosts: 

 215 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 200 

Internet users: 

25,900 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 181 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Djibouti Telecom N

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

25

Equatorial Guinea

Telephones - main lines in use: 

 14,900 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 194 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

501,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 169 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: digital fixed-line network in most major urban areas and good mobile 

coverage

Domestic: fixed-line density is about 2 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular subscribership has been 

increasing and in 2011 stood at about 60 percent of the population 

International: country code - 240; international communications from Bata and Malabo to 

African and European countries; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: State maintains control of broadcast media with domestic broadcast media limited 

to 1 state-owned TV station, 1 private TV station owned by the president's eldest son, 1 state-owned 

radio station, and 1 private radio station owned by the president's eldest son; satellite TV service is 

available; transmissions of multiple international broadcasters are accessible (2013)

Internet country code: .gq

Internet hosts: 

7 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 227 

Internet users: 

14,400 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 196 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Orange N

Hits Ecuatorial Guinea Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

26

Eritrea

Telephones - main lines in use: 

 60,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 159 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

305,300 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 174 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: inadequate; most fixed-line telephones are in Asmara; government is 

seeking international tenders to improve the system; cell phones in increasing use throughout the 

country

Domestic: combined fixed-line and mobile-cellular subscribership is less than 5 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 291 (2011) 

Broadcast media: Government controls broadcast media with private ownership prohibited; 1 stateowned TV station; state-owned radio operates 2 networks; purchases of satellite dishes and 

subscriptions to international broadcast media are permitted (2007)

Internet country code: .er

Internet hosts: 

701 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 177 

Internet users: 

200,000 (2008)

Country comparison to the world: 136 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

- -

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / L
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

27

Ethiopia

Telephones - main lines in use: 

797,500 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 86 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

20.524 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 47 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: inadequate telephone system with the Ethio Telecom maintaining a 

monopoly over telecommunication services; open-wire, microwave radio relay; radio communication in 

the HF, VHF, and UHF frequencies; 2 domestic satellites provide the national trunk service

Domestic: the number of fixed lines and mobile telephones is increasing from a small base; 

combined fixed and mobile-cellular teledensity is roughly 15 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 251; open-wire to Sudan and Djibouti; microwave radio relay to 

Kenya and Djibouti; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Pacific Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: 1 public TV station broadcasting nationally and 1 public radio broadcaster with 

stations in each of the 13 administrative districts; a few commercial radio stations and roughly a dozen 

community radio stations (2009)

Internet country code: .et

Internet hosts: 

179 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 203 

Internet users: 

447,300 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 116

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

ETMTN Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / F
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

28

Gabon

Telephones - main lines in use: 

17,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 192 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

2.93 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 133 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: adequate system of cable, microwave radio relay, tropospheric scatter, 

radiotelephone communication stations, and a domestic satellite system with 12 earth stations

Domestic: a growing mobile-cellular network with multiple providers is making telephone 

service more widely available with mobile-cellular teledensity exceeding 100 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 241; landing point for the SAT-3/WASC fiber-optic submarine cable 

that provides connectivity to Europe and Asia; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: State owns and operates 2 TV stations and 2 radio broadcast stations; a few private 

radio and TV stations; transmissions of at least 2 international broadcasters are accessible; satellite 

service subscriptions are available (2007)

Internet country code: .ga

Internet hosts: 

127 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 205 

Internet users: 

98,800 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 156 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Telecel Gabon N

Zain Y

Azur Gabon N

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C 
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

29

Gambia, The

Telephones - main lines in use: 

64,200 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 158 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

1.526 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 151 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: adequate microwave radio relay and open-wire network; state-owned 

Gambia Telecommunications partially privatized in 2007

Domestic: combined fixed-line and mobile-cellular teledensity, aided by multiple mobile-cellular 

providers, is roughly 80 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 220; microwave radio relay links to Senegal and Guinea-Bissau; a 

landing station for the Africa Coast to Europe (ACE) undersea fiber-optic cable is scheduled for 

completion in 2011; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: State-owned, single-channel TV service; state-owned radio station and 4 privately 

owned radio stations; transmissions of multiple international broadcasters are available, some via 

shortwave radio; cable and satellite TV subscription services are obtainable in some parts of the country 

(2007)

Internet country code: .gm

Internet hosts: 

 656 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 179 

Internet users: 

130,100 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 146 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Comium N

Africell N

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

30

Ghana

Telephones - main lines in use: 

285,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 120 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

25.618 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 42 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: primarily microwave radio relay; wireless local loop has been installed; 

outdated and unreliable fixed-line infrastructure heavily concentrated in Accra

Domestic: competition among multiple mobile-cellular providers has spurred growth with a 

subscribership of more than 80 per 100 persons and rising 

International: country code - 233; landing point for the SAT-3/WASC, Main One, and GLO-1 

fiber-optic submarine cables that provide connectivity to South Africa, Europe, and Asia; satellite earth 

stations - 4 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); microwave radio relay link to Panaftel system connects Ghana to its 

neighbors (2009) 

Broadcast media: State-owned TV station, 2 state-owned radio networks; several privately owned TV 

stations and a large number of privately owned radio stations; transmissions of multiple international 

broadcasters are accessible; several cable and satellite TV subscription services are obtainable (2007)

Internet country code: .gh

Internet hosts: 

59,086 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 93 

Internet users: 

1.297 million (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 91 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Tigo (Millicom) Y

MTN (Scancom) Y

Glo Mobile Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz D / G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

31

Guinea

Telephones - main lines in use: 

18,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 188 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

4.781 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 115 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: inadequate system of open-wire lines, small radiotelephone 

communication stations, and new microwave radio relay system

Domestic: Conakry reasonably well-served; coverage elsewhere remains inadequate and large 

companies tend to rely on their own systems for nationwide links; fixed-line teledensity less than 1 per 

100 persons; mobile-cellular subscribership is expanding and exceeds 40 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 224; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: Government maintains marginal control over broadcast media; single state-run TV 

station; state-run radio broadcast station also operates several stations in rural areas; a steadily 

increasing number of privately owned radio stations, nearly all in Conakry, and about a dozen 

community radio stations; foreign TV programming available via satellite and cable subscription services 

(2011)

Internet country code: .gn

Internet hosts: 

15 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 223 

Internet users: 

95,000 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 157 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Orange Guinea N

Areeba Guinee Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / F / K
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

32

Guinea-Bissau

Telephones - main lines in use: 

5,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 208 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

1.1 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 156 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: small system including a combination of microwave radio relay, open-wire 

lines, radiotelephone, and mobile-cellular communications

Domestic: fixed-line teledensity less than 1 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular teledensity is 

roughly 50 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 245 (2011) 

Broadcast media: 1 state-owned TV station and a second station, Radio e Televisao de Portugal (RTP) 

Africa, is operated by Portuguese public broadcaster (RTP); 1 state-owned radio station, several private 

radio stations, and some community radio stations; multiple international broadcasters are available 

(2007)

Internet country code: .gw

Internet hosts: 

90 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 211 

Internet users: 

37,100 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 173 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

MTN N

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C 
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

33

Kenya

Telephones - main lines in use: 

251,600 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 123 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

30.732 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 33 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: inadequate; fixed-line telephone system is small and inefficient; trunks are 

primarily microwave radio relay; business data commonly transferred by a very small aperture terminal 

(VSAT) system

Domestic: sole fixed-line provider, Telkom Kenya, is slated for privatization; multiple providers 

in the mobile-cellular segment of the market fostering a boom in mobile-cellular telephone usage with 

teledensity reaching 65 per 100 persons in 2011 

International: country code - 254; landing point for the EASSy, TEAMS and SEACOM fiber-optic 

submarine cable systems; satellite earth stations - 4 Intelsat (2011) 

Broadcast media: About a half-dozen large-scale privately owned media companies with TV and radio 

stations as well as a state-owned TV broadcaster provide service nation-wide; satellite and cable TV 

subscription services available; state-owned radio broadcaster operates 2 national radio channels and 

provides regional and local radio services in multiple languages; a large number of private radio stations 

broadcast on a national level along with over 100 private and non-profit provincial stations broadcasting 

in local languages; transmissions of several international broadcasters available (2014)

Internet country code: .ke

Internet hosts: 

71,018 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 88 

Internet users: 

3.996 million (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 57 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Airtel Y

Safaricom Limited Y

Power Plug Type(s)

240v/50 Hz G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

34

Lesotho

Telephones - main lines in use: 

43,100 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 167 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

1.312 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 153 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: rudimentary system consisting of a modest number of landlines, a small 

microwave radio relay system, and a small radiotelephone communication system; mobile-cellular 

telephone system is expanding

Domestic: privatized in 2001, Telecom Lesotho was tasked with providing an additional 50,000 

fixed-line connections within five years, a target not met; mobile-cellular service dominates the market 

and is expanding with a subscribership roughly 65 per 100 persons in 2011; rural services are scant 

International: country code - 266; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: 1 state-owned TV station and 2 state-owned radio stations; government controls 

most private broadcast media; satellite TV subscription service available; transmissions of multiple 

international broadcasters obtainable (2008)

Internet country code: .ls

Internet hosts: 

11,030 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 131 

Internet users: 

76,800 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 164 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Vodacom Lesotho N

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz M
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

35

Liberia

Telephones - main lines in use: 

3,200 (2011)

Country comparison to the world: 211 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

2.394 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 138 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: the limited services available are found almost exclusively in the capital 

Monrovia; fixed-line service stagnant and extremely limited; telephone coverage extended to a number 

of other towns and rural areas by four mobile-cellular network operators

Domestic: mobile-cellular subscription base growing and teledensity reached 50 per 100 

persons in 2011 

International: country code - 231; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2010) 

Broadcast media: 3 private TV stations; satellite TV service available; 1 state-owned radio station; about 

15 independent radio stations broadcasting in Monrovia, with another 25 local stations operating in 

other areas; transmissions of 2 international broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .lr

Internet hosts: 

7 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 228 

Internet users: 

20,000 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 190 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Comium N

Power Plug Type(s)

120v/60 Hz A / B
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

36

Libya

Telephones - main lines in use: 

814,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 85 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

9.59 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 81 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: telecommunications system is state-owned and service is poor, but 

investment is being made to upgrade; state retains monopoly in fixed-line services; mobile-cellular 

telephone system became operational in 1996

Domestic: multiple providers for a mobile telephone system that is growing rapidly; combined 

fixed-line and mobile-cellular teledensity has soared 

International: country code - 218; satellite earth stations - 4 Intelsat, NA Arabsat, and NA 

Intersputnik; submarine cable to France and Italy; microwave radio relay to Tunisia and Egypt; 

tropospheric scatter to Greece; participant in Medarabtel (2010) 

Broadcast media: State-funded and private TV stations; some provinces operate local TV stations; panArab satellite TV stations are available; state-funded radio (2012)

Internet country code: .ly

Internet hosts: 

17,926 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 121 

Internet users: 

353,900 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 121 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Al Madar Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / L
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

37

Madagascar

Telephones - main lines in use: 

143,700 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 137 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

8.564 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 89 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: system is above average for the region; Antananarivo's main telephone 

exchange modernized in the late 1990s, but the rest of the analogue-based telephone system is poorly 

developed

Domestic: combined fixed-line and mobile-cellular teledensity about 40 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 261; landing point for the EASSy, SEACOM, and LION fiber-optic 

submarine cable systems; satellite earth stations - 2 (1 Intelsat - Indian Ocean, 1 Intersputnik - Atlantic 

Ocean region) (2010) 

Broadcast media: State-owned Radio Nationale Malagasy (RNM) and Television Malagasy (TVM) have 

an extensive national network reach; privately owned radio and TV broadcasters in cities and major 

towns; state-run radio dominates in rural areas; relays of 2 international broadcasters are available in 

Antananarivo (2007)

Internet country code: .mg

Internet hosts: 

38,392 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 102 

Internet users: 

319,900 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 124 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Orange N

Zain Y

Telma Mobile Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

38

Malawi

Telephones - main lines in use: 

227,300 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 125 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

4.42 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 117 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: rudimentary; privatization of Malawi Telecommunications (MTL), a 

necessary step in bringing improvement to telecommunications services, completed in 2006

Domestic: limited fixed-line subscribership of about 1 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular services 

are expanding but network coverage is limited and is based around the main urban areas; mobilecellular subscribership about 25 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 265; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean, 1 Atlantic 

Ocean) (2010) 

Broadcast media: radio is the main broadcast medium; privately-owned Zodiac radio has the widest 

national broadcasting reach, followed by state-run radio; about a dozen private and community radio 

stations broadcast in cities and towns around the country; the largest TV network is government-owned, 

but two private TV networks now broadcast in urban areas and more plan to begin broadcasting in 

2014; relays of multiple international broadcasters are available (2014)

Internet country code: .mw

Internet hosts: 

1,099 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 171 

Internet users: 

716,400 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 107 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Telekom Net. Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

39

Mali

Telephones - main lines in use: 

112,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 141 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

14.613 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 59 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: domestic system unreliable but improving; increasing use of local radio 

loops to extend network coverage to remote areas

Domestic: fixed-line subscribership remains less than 1 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular 

subscribership has increased sharply to about 70 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 223; satellite communications center and fiber-optic links to 

neighboring countries; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean, 1 Indian Ocean) (2010) 

Broadcast media: National public TV broadcaster; 2 privately owned companies provide subscription 

services to foreign multi-channel TV packages; national public radio broadcaster supplemented by a 

large number of privately owned and community broadcast stations; transmissions of multiple 

international broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .ml

Internet hosts: 

437 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 186 

Internet users: 

249,800 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 132 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Orange Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

40

Mauritania

Telephones - main lines in use: 

65,100 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 157 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

4.024 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 121 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: limited system of cable and open-wire lines, minor microwave radio relay 

links, and radiotelephone communications stations; mobile-cellular services expanding rapidly

Domestic: Mauritel, the national telecommunications company, was privatized in 2001 but 

remains the monopoly provider of fixed-line services; fixed-line teledensity 2 per 100 persons; mobilecellular network coverage extends mainly to urban areas with a teledensity of roughly 106 per 100 

persons; mostly cable and open-wire lines; a domestic satellite telecommunications system links 

Nouakchott with regional capitals 

International: country code - 222; satellite earth stations - 3 (1 Intelsat - Atlantic Ocean, 2 

Arabsat); fiber-optic and Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) cables for Internet access (2009) 

Broadcast media: One state-run TV (Television de Mauritanie) and one state-run radio network (Radio 

de Mauritanie); Television de Mauritanie has three channels, Al Mahadra station (for Islamic content) 

and Channels 1 and 2, which cover news, sports, and other programming; Radio de Mauritanie runs 12 

regional stations as well as a radio station for youth and the Holy Quran station; five private TV channels 

and five private radio stations also broadcast from Mauritania; six private international radio stations 

broadcast in Mauritania on the FM band; with satellite connections, Mauritanians also have access to 

hundreds of foreign TV channels (2013)

Internet country code: .mr

Internet hosts: 

22 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 220 

Internet users: 

75,000 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 166 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

MATTEL Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C 
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

41

Mauritius

Telephones - main lines in use: 

349,100 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 109 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

1.485 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 152 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: small system with good service

Domestic: monopoly over fixed-line services terminated in 2005; fixed-line teledensity roughly 

30 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular services launched in 1989 with current teledensity roughly 100 per 

100 persons 

International: country code - 230; landing point for the SAFE submarine cable that provides links 

to Asia and South Africa where it connects to the SAT-3/WASC submarine cable that provides further 

links to parts of East Africa, and Europe; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean); new 

microwave link to Reunion; HF radiotelephone links to several countries (2011) 

Broadcast media: The government maintains control over TV broadcasting through the Mauritius 

Broadcasting Corporation (MBC), which operates 3 analog and 10 digital TV stations; MBC is a 

shareholder in a local company that operates 2 pay-TV stations; the state retains the largest radio 

broadcast network with multiple stations; several private radio broadcasters have entered the market 

since 2001; transmissions of at least 2 international broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .mu

Internet hosts: 

51,139 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 95 

Internet users: 

290,000 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 128 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Mahanagar Telephone Y

Emtel Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

42

Morocco

Telephones - main lines in use: 

3.28 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 47 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

39.016 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 31 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: good system composed of open-wire lines, cables, and microwave radio 

relay links; principal switching centers are Casablanca and Rabat; national network nearly 100% digital 

using fiber-optic links; improved rural service employs microwave radio relay; Internet available but 

expensive

Domestic: fixed-line teledensity is roughly 10 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular subscribership 

exceeds 100 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 212; landing point for the Atlas Offshore, Estepona-Tetouan, 

Euroafrica, Spain-Morocco, and SEA-ME-WE-3 fiber-optic telecommunications undersea cables that 

provide connectivity to Asia, the Middle East, and Europe; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic 

Ocean) and 1 Arabsat; microwave radio relay to Gibraltar, Spain, and Western Sahara; coaxial cable and 

microwave radio relay to Algeria; participant in Medarabtel; fiber-optic cable link from Agadir to Algeria 

and Tunisia (2011) 

Broadcast media: 2 TV broadcast networks with state-run Radio-Television Marocaine (RTM) operating 

one network and the state partially owning the other; foreign TV broadcasts are available via satellite 

dish; 3 radio broadcast networks with RTM operating one; the government-owned network includes 10 

regional radio channels in addition to its national service (2007)

Internet country code: .ma

Internet hosts: 

277,338 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 66 

Internet users: 

13.213 million (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 28 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Wana Corporate Y

IAM Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

43

Mozambique

Telephones - main lines in use: 

88,100 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 147 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

8.108 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 91 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: a fair telecommunications system that is shackled with a heavy state 

presence, lack of competition, and high operating costs and charges

Domestic: stagnation in the fixed-line network contrasts with rapid growth in the mobile-cellular 

network; mobile-cellular coverage now includes all the main cities and key roads, including those from 

Maputo to the South African and Swaziland borders, the national highway through Gaza and Inhambane 

provinces, the Beira corridor, and from Nampula to Nacala; extremely low fixed-line teledensity; despite 

significant growth in mobile-cellular services, teledensity remains low at about 35 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 258; landing point for the EASSy and SEACOM fiber-optic 

submarine cable systems; satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 3 Indian Ocean) 

(2011) 

Broadcast media: 1 state-run TV station supplemented by private TV station; Portuguese state TV's 

African service, RTP Africa, and Brazilian-owned TV Miramar are available; state-run radio provides 

nearly 100% territorial coverage and broadcasts in multiple languages; a number of privately owned and 

community-operated stations; transmissions of multiple international broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .mz

Internet hosts: 

89,737 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 82 

Internet users: 

613,600 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 111 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Vodacom Mozambique N

Mozambique Celular Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / F / M
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

44

Namibia

Telephones - main lines in use: 

171,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 129 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

2.435 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 137 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: good system; core fiber-optic network links most centers and connections 

are now digital

Domestic: multiple mobile-cellular providers with a combined subscribership of more than 100 

telephones per 100 persons 

International: country code - 264; fiber-optic cable to South Africa, microwave radio relay link to 

Botswana, direct links to other neighboring countries; connected to the South African Far East (SAFE) 

submarine cable through South Africa; satellite earth stations - 4 Intelsat (2010) 

Broadcast media: 1 private and 1 state-run TV station; satellite and cable TV service is available; staterun radio service broadcasts in multiple languages; about a dozen private radio stations; transmissions 

of multiple international broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .na

Internet hosts: 

78,280 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 84 

Internet users: 

127,500 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 147 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Cell One Y

MTC Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz D / M
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

45

Niger

Telephones - main lines in use: 

100,500 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 144 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

5.4 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 107 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: inadequate; small system of wire, radio telephone communications, and 

microwave radio relay links concentrated in the southwestern area of Niger

Domestic: combined fixed-line and mobile-cellular teledensity remains only about 30 per 100 persons 

despite a rapidly increasing cellular subscribership base; domestic satellite system with 3 earth stations 

and 1 planned 

International: country code - 227; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian 

Ocean) (2010) 

Broadcast media: State-run TV station; 3 private TV stations provide a mix of local and foreign 

programming; state-run radio has only radio station with a national reach; about 30 private radio 

stations operate locally; as many as 100 community radio stations broadcast; transmissions of multiple 

international broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .ne

Internet hosts: 

454 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 185 

Internet users: 

115,900 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 151 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Telecel Niger Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C / D / E / F
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

46

Nigeria

Telephones - main lines in use: 

418,200 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 102 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

112.78 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 10 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: further expansion and modernization of the fixed-line telephone network 

is needed; network quality remains a problem

Domestic: the addition of a second fixed-line provider in 2002 resulted in faster growth but 

subscribership remains only about 1 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular services growing rapidly, in part 

responding to the shortcomings of the fixed-line network; multiple cellular providers operate nationally 

with subscribership base approaching 60 per 100 persons 

International: country code - 234; landing point for the SAT-3/WASC fiber-optic submarine cable 

that provides connectivity to Europe and Asia; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 

Indian Ocean) (2010) 

Broadcast media: Nearly 70 federal government-controlled national and regional TV stations; all 36 

states operate TV stations; several private TV stations operational; cable and satellite TV subscription 

services are available; network of federal government-controlled national, regional, and state radio 

stations; roughly 40 state government-owned radio stations typically carry their own programs except 

for news broadcasts; about 20 private radio stations; transmissions of international broadcasters are 

available (2007)

Internet country code: .ng

Internet hosts: 

1,234 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 169 

Internet users: 

43.989 million (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 9 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

MTN Y

Etisalat Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz D / G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

47

Rwanda

Telephones - main lines in use: 

44,400 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 166 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

5.69 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 104 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: small, inadequate telephone system primarily serves business, education, 

and government

Domestic: the capital, Kigali, is connected to the centers of the provinces by microwave radio 

relay and, recently, by cellular telephone service; much of the network depends on wire and HF 

radiotelephone; combined fixed-line and mobile-cellular telephone density has increased and now 

exceeds 40 telephones per 100 persons 

International: country code - 250; international connections employ microwave radio relay to 

neighboring countries and satellite communications to more distant countries; satellite earth stations - 1 

Intelsat (Indian Ocean) in Kigali (includes telex and telefax service) (2010) 

Broadcast media: Government owns and operates the only TV station; government-owned and 

operated Radio Rwanda has a national reach; 9 private radio stations; transmissions of multiple 

international broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .rw

Internet hosts: 

1,447 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 168 

Internet users: 

450,000 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 115 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Tigo Rwanda Y

Airtel Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / J
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

48

Sao Tome and Principe

Telephones - main lines in use: 

8,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 202 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

122,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 190 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: local telephone network of adequate quality with most lines connected to 

digital switches

Domestic: combined fixed-line and mobile-cellular teledensity roughly 65 telephones per 100 

persons 

International: country code - 239; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2010) 

Broadcast media: 1 government-owned TV station; 1 government-owned radio station; 3 independent 

local radio stations authorized in 2005 with 2 operating at the end of 2006; transmissions of multiple 

international broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .st

Internet hosts: 

1,678 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 165 

Internet users: 

26,700 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 180 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Companhia Santomense Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / F
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

49

Senegal

Telephones - main lines in use: 

338,200 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 110 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

11.47 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 73 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: good system with microwave radio relay, coaxial cable and fiber-optic 

cable in trunk system

Domestic: above-average urban system with a fiber-optic network; nearly two-thirds of all fixedline connections are in Dakar where a call-center industry is emerging; expansion of fixed-line services in 

rural areas needed; mobile-cellular service is expanding rapidly 

International: country code - 221; the SAT-3/WASC fiber-optic cable provides connectivity to 

Europe and Asia while Atlantis-2 provides connectivity to South America; satellite earth station - 1 

Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2010) 

Broadcast media: state-run Radiodiffusion Television Senegalaise (RTS) operates 2 TV stations; a few 

private TV subscription channels rebroadcast foreign channels without providing any local news or 

programs; RTS operates a national radio network and a number of regional FM stations; many 

community and private-broadcast radio stations are available; transmissions of at least 2 international 

broadcasters are accessible on FM in Dakar (2007)

Internet country code: .sn

Internet hosts: 

237 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 197 

Internet users: 

1.818 million (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 74 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Sentel Y

Sonatel (Orange) Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / D / E / K
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

50

Seychelles

Telephones - main lines in use: 

28,900 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 176 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

138,300 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 185 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: effective system

Domestic: combined fixed-line and mobile-cellular teledensity exceeds 170 telephones per 100 

persons; radiotelephone communications between islands in the archipelago 

International: country code - 248; direct radiotelephone communications with adjacent island 

countries and African coastal countries; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: The government operates the only terrestrial TV station, which provides local 

programming and airs broadcasts from international services; multi-channel cable and satellite TV are 

available; the government operates 1 AM and 1 FM radio station; transmissions of 2 international 

broadcasters are accessible in Victoria (2007)

Internet country code: .sc

Internet hosts: 

247 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 195 

Internet users: 

32,000 (2008)

Country comparison to the world: 176 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Airtel Y

Power Plug Type(s)

240v/50 Hz G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

51

Sierra Leone

Telephones - main lines in use: 

18,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 189 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

2.21 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 143 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: marginal telephone service with poor infrastructure

Domestic: the national microwave radio relay trunk system connects Freetown to Bo and 

Kenema; while mobile-cellular service is growing rapidly from a small base, service area coverage 

remains limited 

International: country code - 232; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2009) 

Broadcast media: 1 government-owned TV station; 1 private TV station began operating in 2005; a payTV service began operations in late 2007; 1 government-owned national radio station; about two dozen 

private radio stations primarily clustered in major cities; transmissions of several international 

broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .sl

Internet hosts: 

282 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 191 

Internet users: 

14,900 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 195 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Africell-Lintel Y

Comium N

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz D / G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

52

Somalia

Telephones - main lines in use: 

100,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 145 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

658,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 162 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: the public telecommunications system was almost completely destroyed 

or dismantled during the civil war; private companies offer limited local fixed-line service and private 

wireless companies offer service in most major cities while charging the lowest international rates on 

the continent

Domestic: local cellular telephone systems have been established in Mogadishu and in several 

other population centers with one company beginning to provide 3G services in late 2012 

International: country code - 252; Mogadishu is a landing point for the EASSy fiber-optic 

submarine cable system linking East Africa with Europe and North America (2010) 

Broadcast media: 2 private TV stations rebroadcast Al-Jazeera and CNN; Somaliland has 1 governmentoperated TV station and Puntland has 1 private TV station; the transitional government operates Radio 

Mogadishu; 1 SW and roughly 10 private FM radio stations broadcast in Mogadishu; several radio 

stations operate in central and southern regions; Somaliland has 1 government-operated radio station; 

Puntland has roughly a half dozen private radio stations; transmissions of at least 2 international 

broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .so

Internet hosts: 

186 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 202 

Internet users: 

106,000 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 155 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Hormuud Telecom N

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

53

South Africa

Telephones - main lines in use: 

4.03 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 42 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

68.4 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 19 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: the system is the best developed and most modern in Africa

Domestic: combined fixed-line and mobile-cellular teledensity is roughly 140 telephones per 100 

persons; consists of carrier-equipped open-wire lines, coaxial cables, microwave radio relay links, fiberoptic cable, radiotelephone communication stations, and wireless local loops; key centers are 

Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth, and Pretoria 

International: country code - 27; the SAT-3/WASC and SAFE fiber-optic submarine cable systems 

connect South Africa to Europe and Asia; the EASSy fiber-optic cable system connects with Europe and 

North America; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 2 Atlantic Ocean) (2011) 

Broadcast media: The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) operates 4 TV stations, 3 are freeto-air and 1 is pay TV; e.tv, a private station, is accessible to more than half the population; multiple 

subscription TV services provide a mix of local and international channels; well developed mix of public 

and private radio stations at the national, regional, and local levels; the SABC radio network, stateowned and controlled but nominally independent, operates 18 stations, one for each of the 11 official 

languages, 4 community stations, and 3 commercial stations; more than 100 community-based stations 

extend coverage to rural areas (2007)

Internet country code: .za

Internet hosts: 

4.761 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 23 

Internet users: 

4.42 million (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 52 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Cell C Y

Vodacom Y

MTN Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / D / M / N
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

54

South Sudan

Telephones - main lines in use: 

2,200 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 215 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

2 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 146 

Telephone system: 

International: country code - 211

Broadcast media: TV is controlled by the government; several private FM stations are operational in 

South Sudan; some foreign radio broadcasts are available

Internet country code: .ss

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

- -

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / D
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

55

Sudan

Telephones - main lines in use: 

425,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 101 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

27.659 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 38 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: well-equipped system by regional standards and being upgraded; cellular 

communications started in 1996 and have expanded substantially with wide coverage of most major 

cities

Domestic: consists of microwave radio relay, cable, fiber optic, radiotelephone communications, 

tropospheric scatter, and a domestic satellite system with 14 earth stations 

International: country code - 249; linked to the EASSy and FLAG fiber-optic submarine cable 

systems; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean), 1 Arabsat (2010) 

Broadcast media: the Sudanese Government directly controls TV and radio, requiring that both media 

reflect government policies; TV has a permanent military censor; a private radio station is in operation 

(2007)

Internet country code: .sd

Internet hosts: 

99 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 210 

Internet users: 

4.2 million (2008)

Country comparison to the world: 54 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Zain Y

MTN Sudan N

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / D
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

56

Swaziland

Telephones - main lines in use: 

48,600 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 163 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

805,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 160 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: a somewhat modern but not an advanced system

Domestic: single source for mobile-cellular service with a geographic coverage of about 90% and 

a rising subscribership base; combined fixed-line and mobile cellular teledensity roughly 60 telephones 

per 100 persons in 2011; telephone system consists of carrier-equipped, open-wire lines and lowcapacity, microwave radio relay 

International: country code - 268; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2009) 

Broadcast media: State-owned TV station; satellite dishes are able to access South African providers; 

state-owned radio network with 3 channels; 1 private radio station (2007)

Internet country code: .sz

Internet hosts: 

2,744 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 158 

Internet users: 

90,100 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 158 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

- -

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz M
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

57

Tanzania

Telephones - main lines in use: 

161,100 (2011)

Country comparison to the world: 132 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

27.22 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 39 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: telecommunications services are marginal; system operating below 

capacity and being modernized for better service; small aperture terminal (VSAT) system under 

construction

Domestic: fixed-line telephone network inadequate with less than 1 connection per 100 

persons; mobile-cellular service, aided by multiple providers, is increasing rapidly and in 2011 exceeded 

a subscriber base of 50 telephones per 100 persons; trunk service provided by open-wire, microwave 

radio relay, tropospheric scatter, and fiber-optic cable; some links being made digital 

International: country code - 255; landing point for the EASSy fiber-optic submarine cable 

system linking East Africa with Europe and North America; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian 

Ocean, 1 Atlantic Ocean) (2010) 

Broadcast media: A state-owned TV station and multiple privately owned TV stations; state-owned 

national radio station supplemented by more than 40 privately owned radio stations; transmissions of 

several international broadcasters are available (2007)

Internet country code: .tz

Internet hosts: 

26,074 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 110 

Internet users: 

678,000 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 109 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Airtel Y

Zantel Tanzania Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz D / G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

58

Togo

Telephones - main lines in use: 

225,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 126 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

3.518 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 124 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: fair system based on a network of microwave radio relay routes 

supplemented by open-wire lines and a mobile-cellular system

Domestic: microwave radio relay and open-wire lines for conventional system; combined fixedline and mobile-cellular teledensity roughly 50 telephones per 100 persons with mobile-cellular use 

predominating 

International: country code - 228; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean), 1 

Symphonie (2010) 

Broadcast media: 2 state-owned TV stations with multiple transmission sites; 5 private TV stations 

broadcast locally; cable TV service is available; state-owned radio network with multiple stations; several 

dozen private radio stations and a few community radio stations; transmissions of multiple international 

broadcasters available (2007)

Internet country code: .tg

Internet hosts: 

1,168 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 170 

Internet users: 

356,300 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 120 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Togo Cellulaire Y

Power Plug Type(s)

220v/50 Hz C
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

59

Tunisia

Telephones - main lines in use: 

1.105 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 71 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

12.84 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 68 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: above the African average and continuing to be upgraded; key centers are 

Sfax, Sousse, Bizerte, and Tunis; telephone network is completely digitized; Internet access available 

throughout the country

Domestic: in an effort to jumpstart expansion of the fixed-line network, the government has 

awarded a concession to build and operate a VSAT network with international connectivity; rural areas 

are served by wireless local loops; competition between the two mobile-cellular service providers has 

resulted in lower activation and usage charges and a strong surge in subscribership; a third mobile, 

fixed, and ISP operator was licensed in 2009 and began offering services in 2010; expansion of mobilecellular services to include multimedia messaging and e-mail and Internet to mobile phone services also 

leading to a surge in subscribership; overall fixed-line and mobile-cellular teledensity has reached about 

125 telephones per 100 persons 

International: country code - 216; a landing point for the SEA-ME-WE-4 submarine cable system 

that provides links to Europe, Middle East, and Asia; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) 

and 1 Arabsat; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to Algeria and Libya; participant in Medarabtel; 2 

international gateway digital switches (2011) 

Broadcast media: Broadcast media is mainly government-controlled; the state-run Tunisian Radio and 

Television Establishment (ERTT) operates 2 national TV networks, several national radio networks, and a 

number of regional radio stations; 1 TV and 3 radio stations are privately owned and report domestic 

news stories directly from the official Tunisian news agency; the state retains control of broadcast 

facilities and transmitters through L'Office National de la Telediffusion; Tunisians also have access to 

Egyptian, pan-Arab, and European satellite TV channels (2007)

Internet country code: .tn 

Internet hosts: 

576 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 180 

Internet users: 

3.5 million (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 58 
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

60

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

TUNISIANA Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / E
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

61

Uganda

Telephones - main lines in use: 

315,000 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 113 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

16.355 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 58 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: mobile cellular service is increasing rapidly, but the number of main lines is 

still deficient; work underway on a national backbone information and communications technology 

infrastructure; international phone networks and Internet connectivity provided through satellite and 

VSAT applications

Domestic: intercity traffic by wire, microwave radio relay, and radiotelephone communication 

stations, fixed and mobile-cellular systems for short-range traffic; mobile-cellular teledensity about 50 

per 100 persons in 2010 

International: country code - 256; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) and 1 

Inmarsat; analog links to Kenya and Tanzania (2011) 

Broadcast media: Public broadcaster, Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC), operates radio and TV 

networks; Uganda first began licensing privately owned stations in the 1990s; by 2007 there were nearly 

150 radio and 35 TV stations, mostly based in and around Kampala; transmissions of multiple 

international broadcasters are available in Kampala (2007)

Internet country code: .ug

Internet hosts: 

32,683 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 106 

Internet users: 

3.2 million (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 64 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Airtel Y

Uganda Telecom Y

MTN Y

Warid Telecom N

Power Plug Type(s)

240v/50 Hz G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

62

Western Sahara

Telephone system: 

General assessment: sparse and limited system 

Domestic: NA 

` International: country code - 212; tied into Morocco's system by microwave radio relay, 

tropospheric scatter, and satellite; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) linked to Rabat, 

Morocco (2008) 

Broadcast media: Morocco's state-owned broadcaster, Radio-Television Marocaine (RTM), operates a 

radio service from Laayoune and relays TV service; a Polisario-backed radio station also broadcasts 

(2008)

Internet country code: .eh

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

- -

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50Hz C / F
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

63

Zambia

Telephones - main lines in use: 

82,500 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 149 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

10.525 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 76 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: among the best in sub-Saharan Africa

Domestic: high-capacity microwave radio relay connects most larger towns and cities; several 

cellular telephone services in operation and network coverage is improving; domestic satellite system 

being installed to improve telephone service in rural areas; Internet service is widely available; very 

small aperture terminal (VSAT) networks are operated by private firms 

International: country code - 260; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 

Atlantic Ocean), 3 owned by Zamtel (2010) 

Broadcast media: state-owned Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) operates 1 TV station 

and is the principal local-content provider; several private TV stations; multi-channel subscription TV 

services are available; ZNBC operates 3 radio networks; about 2 dozen private radio stations; relays of at 

least 2 international broadcasters are accessible in Lusaka and Kitwe (2007)

Internet country code: .zm

Internet hosts: 

16,571 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 122 

Internet users: 

816,200 (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 103 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Zamtel Y

Power Plug Type(s)

230v/50 Hz C / D / G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

64

Zimbabwe

Telephones - main lines in use: 

301,600 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 117 

Telephones - mobile cellular: 

12.614 million (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 69 

Telephone system: 

General assessment: system was once one of the best in Africa, but now suffers from poor 

maintenance

Domestic: consists of microwave radio relay links, open-wire lines, radiotelephone 

communication stations, fixed wireless local loop installations, and a substantial mobile-cellular 

network; Internet connection is available in Harare and planned for all major towns and for some of the 

smaller ones 

International: country code - 263; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat; 2 international digital 

gateway exchanges (in Harare and Gweru) (2010) 

Broadcast media: Government owns all local radio and TV stations; foreign shortwave broadcasts and 

satellite TV are available to those who can afford antennas and receivers; in rural areas, access to TV 

broadcasts is extremely limited (2007)

Internet country code: .zw

Internet hosts: 

30,615 (2012)

Country comparison to the world: 108 

Internet users: 

1.423 million (2009)

Country comparison to the world: 82 

Support for USAFRICOM GSM devices (Blackberries and Laptops): 

Providers Data

Net One N

Telecel Y

Power Plug Type(s)

240v/50 Hz D / G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

65

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African Communications Quick Reference Guide

66

Table 1 – Plug, Socket & Voltage by Country

Country / state / territory Single-phase

voltage (volts)

Frequency (hertz) Plug type

Algeria 230 V 50 Hz C / F

Angola 220 V 50 Hz C

Benin 220 V 50 Hz C / E

Botswana 230 V 50 Hz D / G

Burkina Faso 220 V 50 Hz C / E

Burundi 220 V 50 Hz C / E

Cameroon 220 V 50 Hz C / E

Cape Verde 230 V 50 Hz C / F

Central African Republic 220 V 50 Hz C / E

Chad 220 V 50 Hz C / D / E / F

Comoros 220 V 50 Hz C / E

Congo, Democratic Republic of 220 V 50 Hz C / D / E

Congo, Republic of 230 V 50 Hz C / E

Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) 220 V 50 Hz C / E

Djibouti 220 V 50 Hz C / E

Equatorial Guinea 220 V 50 Hz C / E

Eritrea 230 V 50 Hz C / L

Ethiopia 220 V 50 Hz C / F

Gabon (Gabonese Republic) 220 V 50 Hz C

Gambia 230 V 50 Hz G

Ghana 230 V 50 Hz D / G

Guinea 220 V 50 Hz C / F / K

Guinea-Bissau 220 V 50 Hz C

Kenya 240 V 50 Hz G

Lesotho 220 V 50 Hz M

Liberia 120 V 60 Hz A / B

Libya 230 V 50 Hz C / L

Madagascar 220 V 50 Hz C / E

Malawi 230 V 50 Hz G

Mali 220 V 50 Hz C / E

Mauritania 220 V 50 Hz C

Mauritius 230 V 50 Hz C / G

Morocco 220 V 50 Hz C / E

Mozambique 220 V 50 Hz C / F / M

Namibia 220 V 50 Hz D / M

Niger 220 V 50 Hz C / D / E / F

Nigeria 230 V 50 Hz D / G

Rwanda 230 V 50 Hz C / J

São Tomé and Príncipe 230 V 50 Hz C / F

Senegal 230 V 50 Hz C / D / E / K

Seychelles 240 V 50 Hz G

Sierra Leone 230 V 50 Hz D / G

Somalia 220 V 50 Hz C

Somaliland 220 V 50 Hz C

South Africa 230 V 50 Hz C / D / M / N

South Sudan 230 V 50 Hz C / D

Sudan 230 V 50 Hz C / D

Swaziland 230 V 50 Hz M

Tanzania 230 V 50 Hz D / G

Togo 220 V 50 Hz C

Tunisia 230 V 50 Hz C / E

Uganda 240 V 50 Hz G

Western Sahara 230 V 50 Hz C / F

Zambia 230 V 50 Hz C / D / G

Zimbabwe 240 V 50 Hz D / G
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

67

Table 2 – Dialing and Internet Codes

Table 2a – By Country

Internet 

Code

Dialing

Country Code

Algeria DZ 213

Angola AO 244

Benin BJ 229

Botswana BW 267

Burkina Faso BF 226

Burundi BI 257

Cameroon CM 237

Cape Verde CV 238

Central African Republic CF 236

Chad TD 235

Comoros KM 269

Congo, Democratic Republic of CD 243

Congo, Republic of CG 242

Djibouti DJ 253

Equatorial Guinea GQ 240

Eritrea ER 291

Ethiopia ET 251

Gabon GA 241

Gambia GM 220

Ghana GH 233

Guinea GN 224

Guinea-Bissau GW 245

Ivory Coast CI 225

Kenya KE 254

Lesotho LS 266

Liberia LR 231

Libya LY 218

Madagascar MG 261

Malawi MW 265

Mali ML 223

Mauritania MR 222

Mauritius MU 230

Morocco MA 212

Mozambique MZ 258

Namibia NA 264

Niger NE 227

Nigeria NG 234

Rwanda RW 250

Sao Tome and Principe ST 239

Senegal SN 221

Seychelles SC 248

Sierra Leone SL 232

Somalia SO 252

South Africa ZA 27

Sudan SD 249

Swaziland SZ 268

Tanzania TZ 255

Togo TG 228

Tunisia TN 216

Uganda UG 256

Western Sahara EH 212

Zambia ZM 260

Zimbabwe ZW 263

Table 2b – By Internet Code

Internet 

Code

Dialing

Country Code

Angola AO 244

Burkina Faso BF 226

Burundi BI 257

Benin BJ 229

Botswana BW 267

Congo, Democratic Republic of CD 243

Central African Republic CF 236

Congo, Republic of CG 242

Ivory Coast CI 225

Cameroon CM 237

Cape Verde CV 238

Djibouti DJ 253

Algeria DZ 213

Western Sahara EH 212

Eritrea ER 291

Ethiopia ET 251

Gabon GA 241

Ghana GH 233

Gambia GM 220

Guinea GN 224

Equatorial Guinea GQ 240

Guinea-Bissau GW 245

Kenya KE 254

Comoros KM 269

Liberia LR 231

Lesotho LS 266

Libya LY 218

Morocco MA 212

Madagascar MG 261

Mali ML 223

Mauritania MR 222

Mauritius MU 230

Malawi MW 265

Mozambique MZ 258

Namibia NA 264

Niger NE 227

Nigeria NG 234

Rwanda RW 250

Seychelles SC 248

Sudan SD 249

Sierra Leone SL 232

Senegal SN 221

Somalia SO 252

Sao Tome and Principe ST 239

Swaziland SZ 268

Chad TD 235

Togo TG 228

Tunisia TN 216

Tanzania TZ 255

Uganda UG 256

South Africa ZA 27

Zambia ZM 260

Zimbabwe ZW 263
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Table 2c – By Dialing Code

Internet 

Code

Dialing

Country Code

Western Sahara EH 212

Morocco MA 212

Algeria DZ 213

Tunisia TN 216

Libya LY 218

Gambia GM 220

Senegal SN 221

Mauritania MR 222

Mali ML 223

Guinea GN 224

Ivory Coast CI 225

Burkina Faso BF 226

Niger NE 227

Togo TG 228

Benin BJ 229

Mauritius MU 230

Liberia LR 231

Sierra Leone SL 232

Ghana GH 233

Nigeria NG 234

Chad TD 235

Central African Republic CF 236

Cameroon CM 237

Cape Verde CV 238

Sao Tome and Principe ST 239

Equatorial Guinea GQ 240

Gabon GA 241

Congo, Republic of CG 242

Congo, Democratic Republic of CD 243

Angola AO 244

Guinea-Bissau GW 245

Seychelles SC 248

Sudan SD 249

Rwanda RW 250

Ethiopia ET 251

Somalia SO 252

Djibouti DJ 253

Kenya KE 254

Tanzania TZ 255

Uganda UG 256

Burundi BI 257

Mozambique MZ 258

Zambia ZM 260

Madagascar MG 261

Zimbabwe ZW 263

Namibia NA 264

Malawi MW 265

Lesotho LS 266

Botswana BW 267

Swaziland SZ 268

Comoros KM 269

South Africa ZA 27

Eritrea ER 291
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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Table 3 – Plugs and Sockets Types

Type A Type B Type C

Type D Type E Type F

Type G Type J Type K

Type L Type M Type N
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List of Sources

CIA World Factbook 2015, https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-worldfactbook/wfbExt/region_afr.html , Accessed 23 Jun 15.

“T-Mobile Mobilfunkshop, Roaming, Lander & Netze”, https://www.t-mobile.de/roaming/infos-zumroaming/0,27639,29100-_,00.html?seite=laendergruppen , Accessed 23 Jun 15.

“Plug, socket & voltage by country”, Worldstandards, http://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plugsand-sockets/, Accessed 7 Oct 14.

“Western Sahara”, Power Plugs and Sockets of the World, www.power-plugs-sockets.com/westernsahara/ , Accessed 24 Jun 15.

“Country Codes, Phone Codes, Dialing Codes, Telephone Codes, ISO Country Codes”, CountryCode.org, 

https://countrycode.org/ , Accessed 24 Jun 15.

AFRICOM Newcomer’s Orientation Course, 

https://portal.usafricom.smil.mil/orgs/j7/j71/j713/J713%20Course%20Documents/Forms/AllItems.aspx

?RootFolder=%2Forgs%2Fj7%2Fj71%2Fj713%2FJ713%20Course%20Documents%2FAfricom%20Newcom

ers%20Orientation%20Course%20%28ANOC%29%2F01%20%2D%20Lesson%20Briefings, Accessed 11 

Feb 16.

“Checklist: 24 Steps for Data Security While Travelling Abroad”, 

http://http://www.securitymagazine.com/articles/85271-checklist-24-steps-for-data-security-whiletraveling-abroad, Accessed 11 Feb 16.
African Communications Quick Reference Guide

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