Working, learning and even playing remotely has taken root in the heart of Africa. As a result, many people have begun to flock to video conferencing to facilitate the easy exchange of remote information. Whether it’s a Nigerian entrepreneur pitching to investors, a Kenyan student attending an online class, or a South African freelancer collaborating with international clients, video conferencing plays a key role in making these activities seamless and engaging. But with unreliable internet connections and high data costs in many parts of the continent, finding the right platform can be tricky.
When it comes to accessibility, affordability and efficiency, here are some of the best video conferencing apps that have graced African devices.
1. Zoom – High-grade Video Quality
Zoom remains one of the most widely used video conferencing apps Worldwide. It has options like high-quality video, screen sharing, and breakout rooms, making it the perfect choice for business meetings, online classes, and webinars.
While its popularity speaks for its benefits, Zoom is not a completely free app. Its free plan limits meetings to 40 minutes, which can be frustrating. Moreover, it requires a strong internet connection due to its loyalty to high-video quality, so users in areas with poor network coverage may experience lags.
2. Google Meet – Best for Low Data Usage
Google Meet is another top choice for Africans. It is a free, reliable, and data-efficient video conferencing app. Unlike Zoom, it doesn’t cut off meetings after 40 minutes, and it runs smoothly on mobile networks. It has an extra benefit for Gmail users as Google Meet integrates seamlessly with an account, making it easy to set up meetings without extra software.
3. Microsoft Teams – Ideal for Corporate and Educational Use
Several companies and schools rely on Microsoft tools like Word and PowerPoint to get them through their daily tasks, and with that Microsoft Teams becomes the best option. It combines video calls, messaging, and document sharing in one place, making it great for professional collaboration.
While it works best with strong internet, Microsoft has made Teams work better with lower bandwidths in recent updates, making it more accessible in African rural areas or places with poor connectivity.
4. WhatsApp Video Call – The Everyday Solution
Sometimes people don’t want a full-scale conferencing app. For quick, informal gatherings, or simple, low-stake meetings, WhatsApp video calls are a go-to for many Africans. The app is data-friendly and used widely across Africa, all without the need for any extra sign-ups or additional downloads.
However, its simplistic nature comes at a cost. WhatsApp video lacks advanced features like screen sharing, making it nearly inconceivable for professional use.
5. Jitsi Meet – The Free and Open-Source Video Alternative
Possibly the most unheard of of all the applications to make the list, Jitsi Meet is another excellent option. For those looking for a completely free, secure, and open-source video conferencing app, Jitsi Meet has all the required features.
It doesn’t require an account—just create a meeting link and share it. Jitsi works well with low internet speeds because it is lightweight, making it a good choice for Africans dealing with inconsistent network coverage.