Afghanistan's internet penetration has reached 24% in 2026, reflecting gradual growth despite ongoing infrastructure challenges. Mobile internet remains the primary access point, with 15 million subscriptions supporting a growing digital economy. Frequent outages averaging 3.8 hours daily hinder consistent connectivity, impacting both personal and business activities. Efforts to improve infrastructure are crucial for expanding access and reducing outage durations, fostering digital inclusion.
The total number of internet users now exceeds 9.6 million, representing approximately a quarter of the population. Average internet speeds of 15 Mbps indicate moderate improvement but still lag behind regional standards. Addressing outage frequency and expanding coverage are priorities for policymakers aiming to harness digital opportunities for economic development, education, and governance. Continued investment is essential to enhance Afghanistan's digital resilience in 2026.