The line graph illustrates the number of telephone subscribers per 100 inhabitants in Africa between 1994 and 2004, distinguishing between fixed-line and mobile phones.
Overall, it is clear that while the number of fixed-line subscribers increased only slightly over the period, mobile phone usage grew dramatically, overtaking fixed lines in the early 2000s.
In 1994, fixed-line subscriptions were at 1.7 per 100 people, remaining relatively steady throughout the decade and reaching 3.1 by 2004. In contrast, mobile phone subscriptions started at just 0.06 per 100 inhabitants in 1994 but rose sharply from 2000 onwards. By 2001, mobile subscriptions had surpassed fixed-line numbers, climbing to 8.8 per 100 inhabitants by 2004, the highest point in the period.
This indicates a significant shift in communication trends in Africa, with mobile phones becoming increasingly accessible and popular compared to traditional fixed-line connections.