The Democratic Republic of Congo's social commerce sector is rapidly expanding, with influencer sales reaching an estimated USD 150 million in 2026. The rise of mobile internet access and increased social media usage have fueled this growth, making influencers key players in digital retail. With around 45,000 active influencers, the sector is becoming more diverse, catering to a broad demographic. This trend signifies a shift towards more personalized and accessible shopping experiences.
Despite the impressive growth, social commerce still represents a modest 12% of online retail activity in DRC, indicating room for further expansion. Mobile commerce dominates, accounting for 78% of sales, reflecting widespread smartphone adoption. As digital infrastructure improves and influencer marketing strategies evolve, social commerce is expected to become an even more vital component of the country's retail landscape, boosting small businesses and entrepreneurs.