Most Developed Countries In Africa

A diverse continent of over one billion people, Africa encompasses 54 countries, each with unique cultures, languages, natural resources, and development trajectories. While African nations have often been associated with economic challenges, many are showing remarkable progress in various indicators of development. A significant method of measuring this development is the Human Development Index (HDI), which is a composite index measuring average achievements in three basic aspects of human development—health, education, and standard of living. 

Combining data from various sources, the latest report on the Human Development Index in Africa presents an encouraging picture of progress, development, and growth. Far from the single narrative of poverty and underdevelopment, the data highlights a dynamic continent characterized by pockets of significant growth and increased stability.

Key findings from the data include:

• According to the most recent HDI ranking, Mauritius stands out as the most developed country in Africa with an HDI of 0.802. It is closely followed by Seychelles with 0.785 and Algeria with 0.745.
• Egypt and Tunisia both stood at an HDI of 0.731, jointly taking the fourth spot. Meanwhile, Libya rounds off the list of the top six with its HDI at 0.718.
• The countries with the least developed index include South Sudan with 0.385, and Chad with 0.394. Despite being at the bottom of the index, these nations, too, have shown signs of progress in recent years.
• North African countries dominate the top of the list demonstrating higher levels of development compared to their Sub-Saharan counterparts.

Africa's development picture is arguably the most diversified globally, with nations at different stages of socio-economic development. By monitoring such indexes, we can gauge each country's progress and understand the steps each needs to take on the journey towards sustainable development.

According to the Human Development Index (HDI), the 10 most developed countries in Africa are Mauritius, Seychelles, Algeria, Egypt, Tunisia, Libya, South Africa, Gabon, Botswana, and Morocco.

Mauritius tops the list as the most developed country in Africa with an impressive HDI of 0.802. This high rating is a testament to the nation's focused efforts in improving health, education, and living conditions. Seychelles follows closely in development with a slightly lower HDI of 0.785, indicating commendable achievements in human development.

Ranked third in Africa, Algeria stands out with an HDI of 0.745, demonstrating significant progress in reducing income inequality and investing in human capital. Egypt and Tunisia tie at the fourth spot, both with an HDI of 0.731, reflecting their strides in education and healthcare provision.

Libya clinches the sixth spot with an HDI score of 0.718, an indication of the country's balance in economic and social development. South Africa and Gabon follow with HDIs of 0.713 and 0.706 respectively.

The ninth most developed country in Africa, Botswana, boasts an HDI of 0.693, a result of consistent initiatives in improving education and poverty reduction. Lastly, Morocco with an HDI of 0.683 rounds out the top 10 list, mirroring its efforts in enhancing literacy rates and providing quality healthcare.

10 Most Developed Countries in Africa:

1. Mauritius - 0.802
2. Seychelles - 0.785
3. Algeria - 0.745
4. Egypt - 0.731
5. Tunisia - 0.731
6. Libya - 0.718
7. South Africa - 0.713
8. Gabon - 0.706
9. Botswana - 0.693
10. Morocco - 0.683

To sort the data in the table, click on the column headers.

Year: 2021

Source: Human Development Index - UNDP Human Development Reports