Digital Readiness and Organizational Transformation for IoT Adoption in African Enterprises

Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming business innovation and competitiveness, yet adoption across Africa remains uneven due to a deep digital divide. This review of 44 peer-reviewed studies (2015–2025) examined how digital readiness and organizational transformation shape IoT uptake. Results show that limited broadband, unstable electricity, and weak cloud systems constrain readiness, while skill shortages and poor digital leadership further slow progress. Many enterprises lack the technical capacity, managerial support, and flexibility required for IoT integration. External obstacles include fragmented regulation and scarce finance, though initiatives such as AfCFTA, the Smart Africa Alliance, and fintech programs offer new opportunities. Effective adoption depends not only on access to technology but also on firms' ability to sense, seize, and reconfigure resources. Building agility, leadership, innovation culture, and robust infrastructure, underpinned by coherent policy and academia-industry collaboration, is crucial for sustainable IoT-driven growth in Africa.