Africa’s Internet of Things (IoT) sector is rapidly expanding, with homegrown companies applying connected technologies to solve local challenges in energy, healthcare, and infrastructure. These innovators are not only scaling across borders but also driving social and economic transformation.

Here are top 5 IoT companies in Africa leading the way:

— M-Kopa (Kenya): M-Kopa pioneered pay-as-you-go solar systems linked to IoT devices that track usage and payments in real time. The company has scaled to millions of connected homes, making affordable clean energy accessible across East and West Africa.

— IoT.nxt (South Africa): IoT.nxt provides platform-agnostic IoT systems that integrate data across industries including mining, logistics, and energy. Its edge computing and automation technologies are used by leading enterprises across Africa.

— Okra Solar (Nigeria): Okra Solar develops IoT-enabled mesh-grid technology that allows communities to share solar power efficiently. The company is expanding rural electrification projects across Nigeria and Southeast Asia, supported by recent multi-million-dollar financing.

— RxAll (Nigeria): RxAll uses IoT-based hyperspectral scanners to detect counterfeit medicines instantly. Its solution helps pharmacies and regulators protect patients by verifying drugs in real time, addressing a critical public health challenge in Africa.

— Lumkani (South Africa): Lumkani deploys IoT fire detection systems in informal settlements, using heat sensors connected through mesh networks. Its technology has already safeguarded tens of thousands of households in South Africa and Kenya.

These five companies highlight Africa’s unique approach to IoT, where connectivity is applied to solve urgent needs in energy, safety, and healthcare, while creating scalable business models rooted in impact.

This ranking is based on operational scale, technological innovation, social and economic impact, and funding traction. Data was compiled from company reports, industry analyses, and media features up to August 2025.

Image Credit: Business Quest