Aside from the abundant human and natural resources, these countries have carved another niche for themselves. They now have inventors blazing the trail in science and technology.
Let's take a look at the ten most technologically advanced countries in Africa.
1. South Africa
On the top of our list is South Africa. With the best universities in Africa as well as many mind blowing infrastructure at its beck and call, the country ranks as the most technologically developed country on the continent in the current Global Innovation Index (GII).
The country walks tall with many amazing inventions, like Linux Ubuntu, Multi-choice (DSTV), PayPal just to mention a few.
2. Uganda
According to a study conducted by Martin Prosperity Institute of the US, Uganda is the second best nation in Africa with advanced technological and innovation capabilities. The study ranked Uganda 82nd in the chart of nations with advanced technological innovation. In Uganda, the government has invested heavily in its ICT sector. It has also attracted foreign investors in the sector. Earlier this year, Uganda launched Africa’s first ever solar-powered bus, ‘Kayoola.’
3. Nigeria
Africa's most populous country is third on the log. Similar to America’s Silicon Valley is Nigeria’s Tech hub, Yaba, a city in Lagos that recently played host to Facebook Founder, Mark Zuckerberg.
The country hosts the likes of Iroko Partners, a successful internet company with more than 6 million unique users from 178 nations. INYE-1 and INYE-2 tablet computers are made in Nigeria. Moringa plant technology enables Nigerians to use Moringa plant for water treatment.
4. Kenya
Kenya is a truism of the saying, "ideas rule the world." It boasts of many technological innovation ideas.
For instance, Antony Mutua developed a charging shoe and a 44-year-old man from Nairobi invented an alarm-fitted television. SMS car immobilizer, solar powered refrigerator and underwater pet housing are some of the mind blowing innovations coming out of the "Silicon Savannah."
5. Egypt
Remember the many historic tales about Egypt?
Welcome to the ancient country. According to experts, Egypt is the cradle of civilization. The country has for long been associated with inventions and innovations.
In fact, Ancient Egypt recorded development in technology, astronomy and science that allowed astronauts to explore space travel.
6. Ghana
Ghana’s effort to be technologically advanced is not just limited to cities in Ghana. It has been taken to the slums too.
Last year, women and young girls were trained on how to code by Achievers club, a non-profit organisation in Nima.
Many technology entrepreneurs have emerged from Ghana. Notable among them is Mr. Freddie Green who invented an affordable video conferencing system. It uses compressed gas to generate electricity.
7. Rwanda
It is a country still bearing the brunt of the ravaging effects of civil war and genocide that once held the land sway, but it's determination to forge ahead remains the country's greatest treasure. Welcome to Rwanda. The nation has launched the proposed 4G LTE broadband network which provides new opportunities to deliver top class internet service nationwide.
8. Madagascar
Tucked in the eighth position on the countdown, Madagascar is a country on the right track when it comes to technology and innovation capabilities. Recently, a study conducted by Martin Prosperity Institute of the US ranked Madagascar the third nation in Africa with advanced technology.
9. Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe, technology-based investment in from Asian countries is growing, enticed by cheap labour and a huge regional market. One of the most technologically advanced projects Zimbabwe has attracted is a $12 million Malaysian electronic manufacturing.
10. Botswana
Last on the list is Botswana. Botswana’s Innovation Hub is designed to keep tech start-ups, global corporations, research and health organizations under the roof of technology and innovation. This Innovation Hub has the backup of the government achieving their aims and objectives. Will they move up the ranks soon? Probably yes!