Africa’s geospatial sector surged in 2025, blending AI and digital twins to drive smarter cities and data-driven resilience.

TechCentral

Africa's geospatial sector experienced significant growth in 2025, with countries like Cameroon, Mali, Mozambique, and Rwanda advancing data infrastructures under the UN-GGIM framework. The industry is projected to reach $100 billion by 2030, driven by AI integration, digital twin technology for urban planning, and improved location intelligence APIs supporting over 50 million address combinations. Key challenges include skills gaps in business schools, limited adoption awareness, and fragmented data governance. Emerging applications span healthcare optimization, logistics management, water resource management through platforms like Resolve Water, and ESG compliance. Public-private partnerships are proving essential for scaling smart city solutions and climate adaptation initiatives across the continent.

Geospatial in Africa: the highs and lows, and what’s ahead in 2026