Top 10 African Countries by Good Governance System in 2025

In Summary

• African nations that perform well on the CGGI often combine institutional independence with investment in citizen trust, not just economic size.
• Countries that rank higher on governance indices usually benefit from political stability, but reforms in smaller states like Rwanda and Mauritius show size is not decisive.
• The CGGI reflects more than democracy; it measures government capacity, public services, and rule of law, which explains why some non-democracies still score strongly.

Deep Dive!!

Lagos, Nigeria, Wednesday, September 17 - Good governance is increasingly recognized as one of Africa’s most valuable assets. While natural resources and population strength shape economies, the ability of governments to manage public institutions and deliver services often determines long-term progress. The Chandler Good Government Index (CGGI), published annually, provides an independent measure of government effectiveness across the world. It assesses factors such as leadership, public administration, law, and regulatory quality, making it one of the most comprehensive governance yardsticks available.

In the 2025 CGGI, several African nations demonstrated resilience and reform-driven improvements despite global economic and political pressures. These countries are not merely benefiting from favorable conditions but have invested in institutional reforms, strengthened transparency, and developed more reliable systems of governance. Their positions in the index offer valuable insight into how governance evolves in African contexts, often shaped by unique social, political, and historical realities.

This ranking of the top ten African countries on the 2025 CGGI shows a mixture of established reformers and emerging contenders. The list reflects diverse approaches, some focus on administrative capacity, others on anti-corruption reforms, and still others on regulatory effectiveness. Together, they highlight how Africa’s governance story is not one of uniform struggle but of differentiated progress, with lessons that resonate well beyond the continent.

10. Namibia 

Namibia’s position at 90 with a score of 0.415 reflects a governance system that has remained steady and institutionally sound since independence in 1990. The country’s Constitution is one of the most respected in Southern Africa, with clear guarantees for the rule of law, judicial independence, and multiparty competition. This foundation has allowed Namibia to build a stable democracy where electoral processes are credible and civil liberties are broadly protected.

A defining strength of Namibia’s governance lies in its emphasis on accountability and institutional oversight. The Office of the Ombudsman and the Anti-Corruption Commission provide citizens with channels to challenge misconduct, while parliament has played an increasingly active role in debating and scrutinizing government policy. The country also invests in decentralization, giving local and regional councils more control over development planning. These mechanisms have helped sustain public trust in government and have positioned Namibia as one of the continent’s more transparent systems of administration.

Reforms aimed at modernization are central to Namibia’s governance trajectory. The government has expanded digital platforms for tax collection, land administration, and social services, reducing bureaucratic delays and improving access. Vision 2030, the country’s long-term development framework, explicitly links economic diversification with governance capacity, setting ambitious targets for inclusive growth and institutional strengthening. Namibia’s commitment to international standards, including adherence to human rights treaties and participation in regional governance initiatives under the African Union and SADC, further reinforces its reputation as a country steadily advancing its governance architecture.

9. Ghana 

Ghana’s score of 0.430 and global position of 86 reflect the strength of its democratic framework and its consistent record in building stable institutions. Since the return to constitutional rule in 1992, Ghana has established one of West Africa’s most credible electoral systems, anchored by an independent Electoral Commission and a judiciary that has often proven willing to uphold constitutional provisions. These structures have created a political culture where peaceful transitions of power are the norm, setting Ghana apart in a region marked by volatility.

A major factor in Ghana’s governance strength is its civic environment. Civil society groups, investigative journalists, and an active media consistently hold leaders accountable, creating strong external checks on government power. Parliament itself has become more assertive in recent years, demanding greater scrutiny of budgets and executive actions. Ghana also benefits from its steady integration into global governance initiatives such as the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), which has improved oversight of oil and gold revenues and given the public clearer access to information about resource management.

Reforms in public administration are another reason for Ghana’s recognition in the governance index. The national digitalization agenda, which includes biometric identification, electronic tax filing, and streamlined business registration, has transformed service delivery, cut inefficiencies, and widened the tax net. The establishment of the Office of the Special Prosecutor has strengthened the legal framework against corruption, and long-term planning frameworks such as the Coordinated Programme of Economic and Social Development Policies explicitly link governance with inclusive growth. These steps illustrate how Ghana’s governance system is not only resilient but actively adapting, reinforcing its position as a benchmark for democratic accountability and reform in Africa.

8. Senegal 

Senegal holds a global position of 83 with a score of 0.430, reflecting its long-standing reputation as one of West Africa’s most stable governance systems. The country has never experienced a coup, setting it apart in a region where democratic continuity is often disrupted. Its institutions, particularly the judiciary and constitutional bodies, have gradually gained credibility, while Senegal’s political culture has sustained multiparty competition and citizen participation since independence.

One of Senegal’s notable governance strengths is its tradition of civic engagement. A strong civil society, active unions, and independent media play a key role in shaping political accountability. This environment has allowed citizens to consistently influence governance outcomes, ensuring that reforms are not solely top-down but are also community-driven. The decentralization policy, which empowers local governments with budgetary and administrative responsibilities, is a further reflection of Senegal’s efforts to make governance more responsive and inclusive across its diverse regions.

Recent reforms demonstrate the country’s commitment to strengthening its governance framework. Judicial modernization programs are improving case management and accessibility of justice, while public administration reforms are digitizing tax systems and land registries. Senegal’s Plan Sénégal Émergent integrates governance targets alongside economic growth priorities, recognizing that institutional efficiency underpins sustainable development. Regional leadership within ECOWAS and adherence to international governance norms also position Senegal as not just a national example but a regional standard-bearer for good governance.

7. Egypt 

Egypt stands at 81 globally with a score of 0.440, underscoring the scale and sophistication of its governance capacity in North Africa. As one of the continent’s largest countries by population, Egypt’s governance strength lies in its ability to manage complex state functions, sustain large-scale infrastructure projects, and maintain a centralized but resilient public administration. Its long-standing bureaucratic tradition, dating back to the modernizing reforms of the 19th and 20th centuries, continues to provide the backbone of its state machinery.

Institutional stability is reinforced by the country’s emphasis on public sector modernization. Egypt has invested heavily in digitizing government services, particularly through the “Digital Egypt” initiative, which seeks to bring most state services online, streamline bureaucratic procedures, and widen citizen access. Administrative reforms have focused on professionalizing the civil service, creating performance-based assessments, and enhancing financial oversight. The government’s push to expand e-governance platforms in education, healthcare, and taxation illustrates how modernization is being used as a tool to strengthen institutional trust and efficiency.

Ongoing national strategies further highlight Egypt’s governance direction. Egypt Vision 2030 integrates governance targets with economic, social, and environmental priorities, ensuring that state capacity is measured not only by control but also by service delivery. Anti-corruption efforts, spearheaded by the Administrative Control Authority, have gained visibility through new transparency requirements in procurement and public finance management. At the international level, Egypt plays an active governance role through African Union frameworks, regional security cooperation, and mediation diplomacy, projecting its governance model beyond national borders. 

6. Tanzania

Tanzania holds the 78th global position with a score of 0.457, reflecting steady gains in institutional performance and state capacity. Its governance framework is built on a tradition of political stability dating back to independence, with the union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar forming a unique constitutional arrangement that continues to shape its administrative system. This stability has provided a strong foundation for state-led development planning, allowing Tanzania to maintain consistency in governance reforms across successive administrations.

A key factor in Tanzania’s governance strength is its commitment to public sector accountability and service delivery. The country has expanded oversight institutions such as the Controller and Auditor General, which plays an active role in scrutinizing public expenditure. Decentralization reforms, particularly the Local Government Reform Programme, have shifted administrative powers closer to citizens, enabling more responsive governance at the district and regional levels. Tanzania’s judiciary has also gained recognition for maintaining relative independence, providing an important check within the broader system.

Recent governance initiatives demonstrate the country’s determination to modernize. The government has invested in e-procurement systems, digital tax collection platforms, and electronic land registries to reduce inefficiencies and corruption risks. Development frameworks such as Tanzania Development Vision 2025 directly link governance quality with national growth goals, emphasizing institutional capacity, accountability, and citizen participation. On the international stage, Tanzania’s active role within the East African Community highlights its commitment to regional governance harmonization. 

5. South Africa 

South Africa sits at the 77th position globally with a score of 0.461, reflecting its strong institutional architecture and governance capacity. The country’s governance framework is rooted in its 1996 Constitution, one of the most progressive in the world, which enshrines the rule of law, separation of powers, and an extensive bill of rights. This legal foundation has given South Africa resilient institutions that remain functional even during periods of political turbulence. Its judiciary, particularly the Constitutional Court, is widely respected for independence and has issued landmark rulings that reinforce accountability at the highest levels of government.

Parliament and oversight institutions are central to South Africa’s governance credibility. The Office of the Public Protector, the Auditor-General, and the Human Rights Commission all serve as powerful checks, ensuring scrutiny of public officials and institutions. These bodies have been instrumental in advancing accountability, exposing governance failures, and reinforcing the principle that no individual is above the law. South Africa’s vibrant civil society and free press further amplify governance oversight, creating an environment where leadership is consistently tested by public opinion and institutional challenge.

Ongoing reforms highlight South Africa’s efforts to strengthen governance even further. The National Development Plan 2030 explicitly ties governance improvements to inclusive growth, targeting professionalization of the public service, better coordination across departments, and stronger performance monitoring. Anti-corruption measures have been scaled up with the establishment of specialized investigative units, while digital governance initiatives are being expanded to streamline service delivery in tax administration, licensing, and social security systems. South Africa’s active participation in the African Peer Review Mechanism and its leadership role in the African Union also demonstrate its commitment to continental governance standards. Together, these reforms underline why South Africa continues to be recognized as a governance leader in Africa, with institutions that are not only resilient but also adaptable in advancing accountability and transparency.

4. Morocco 

Morocco ranks 75th globally with a score of 0.466, underscoring its reputation as one of North Africa’s most reform-driven governance systems. The country has steadily modernized its institutions over the past two decades, balancing a long monarchical tradition with constitutional reforms designed to expand accountability and citizen participation. The 2011 Constitution marked a turning point by strengthening the powers of parliament, guaranteeing judicial independence, and embedding transparency requirements into governance processes.

Institutional reforms have been particularly visible in the justice and administrative sectors. Morocco’s judiciary now operates under a High Council of Judicial Power, reinforcing independence from the executive and professionalizing the courts. Public administration reforms have emphasized efficiency through simplification of bureaucratic procedures and the adoption of digital platforms, making it easier for citizens to access government services. The country’s regionalization policy has further decentralized governance, granting regional councils more authority over development planning, budgeting, and investment priorities.

Morocco’s governance progress is also reflected in its ambitious long-term strategies. Vision 2035 links institutional modernization with economic transformation, placing governance at the core of national development. Anti-corruption measures have been scaled up through the National Authority for Probity, Prevention, and Fight against Corruption, which now oversees ethics compliance and public integrity initiatives. Digital governance projects such as electronic procurement systems and online tax services are reducing inefficiencies while increasing transparency. At the continental level, Morocco’s return to the African Union in 2017 has allowed it to play a more active role in regional governance dialogues, further reinforcing its image as a state combining domestic reforms with continental leadership.

3. Botswana 

Botswana holds the 61st position globally with a score of 0.501, making it one of Africa’s most consistent performers in governance. Since its independence in 1966, the country has built a reputation for stable institutions, the rule of law, and prudent management of public resources. Its parliamentary democracy, anchored by a respected electoral commission and a judiciary that has generally maintained independence, has ensured continuity in leadership transitions and long-term policy planning. This stability has made Botswana a benchmark in discussions of governance excellence on the continent.

The strength of Botswana’s governance lies in its culture of accountability and fiscal responsibility. Revenues from diamonds have been carefully managed through transparent budgetary processes, with significant investments channeled into education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Oversight institutions such as the Office of the Auditor General and the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC) have enhanced accountability, while parliament has grown more assertive in exercising oversight over executive actions. Botswana’s civil service is often cited as one of the most professional and efficient in Africa, enabling effective policy implementation and delivery of public services.

Reforms continue to push Botswana’s governance model forward. The government has expanded e-governance initiatives, digitizing procurement, land services, and tax administration to improve efficiency and reduce the risk of corruption. The Vision 2036 development blueprint identifies good governance as a central pillar, with emphasis on transparency, decentralization, and institutional innovation. At the regional level, Botswana’s active participation in SADC governance initiatives and its hosting of international institutions underscore its leadership role in shaping governance norms in Southern Africa. Yes 

2. Rwanda 

Rwanda ranks 55th globally with a score of 0.529, standing out as one of Africa’s most disciplined and reform-driven governance models. Since the 1994 genocide, the country has undergone a dramatic transformation, building institutions that emphasize accountability, efficiency, and strategic planning. The governance framework is anchored in a strong executive but complemented by institutions such as the Rwanda Governance Board, the Office of the Ombudsman, and a professional civil service that prioritizes results and transparency.

Rwanda’s governance strength lies in its focus on delivery and measurable outcomes. Policy frameworks like Vision 2050 and the National Strategy for Transformation (NST1) are directly linked to performance contracts known as Imihigo, where government officials at all levels are held accountable through annual targets. This system has not only improved service delivery but has also instilled a culture of responsibility across public administration. Rwanda’s justice system has undergone sweeping modernization, from the establishment of community-based Gacaca courts to ongoing reforms in commercial arbitration and digitalized judicial processes, ensuring accessibility and efficiency.

The country is also a continental leader in e-governance and technology-driven administration. Platforms like Irembo allow citizens to access government services online, drastically reducing bureaucracy and corruption risks. Rwanda has adopted smart city models, digital ID systems, and ICT-enabled governance tools that improve both citizen engagement and policy tracking. Furthermore, Rwanda’s emphasis on gender representation in governance, with women holding more than 60% of seats in parliament, sets a global standard for inclusive governance.

Regionally, Rwanda plays a strategic governance role through the African Union and regional security frameworks, often contributing to peacekeeping missions and mediation efforts. International observers frequently cite Rwanda as an example of how strong governance can catalyze rapid socio-economic development. With its reformist orientation, focus on institutional performance, and future-oriented planning, Rwanda continues to demonstrate that governance rooted in accountability and innovation can reshape national trajectories in Africa.

1. Mauritius 

Mauritius leads Africa with a global position of 51 and a score of 0.553, consistently setting the benchmark for governance. Its system is anchored in constitutional democracy, an independent judiciary, and one of the most stable political environments in Africa. Mauritius has built institutions that safeguard the rule of law, protect civil liberties, and ensure checks and balances between the executive, legislative, and judicial arms. This institutional stability is one of the strongest foundations for the country’s enduring governance excellence.

The country’s governance model is deeply rooted in inclusivity and consensus-building. With a multi-ethnic, multi-religious population, Mauritius has perfected mechanisms for managing diversity through dialogue, fair representation, and equitable policies. Electoral integrity is safeguarded by an autonomous Electoral Commission, while public institutions operate with strong transparency standards. The island nation’s independent judiciary remains one of Africa’s most respected, with a track record of impartiality and adherence to international best practices.

Mauritius also stands out for its economic governance. The country transitioned from a mono-crop sugar economy into a diversified hub covering financial services, ICT, renewable energy, and tourism, thanks to policies anchored in foresight and accountability. Public financial management is carefully monitored, while the country ranks highly in anti-corruption indicators across the continent. Its Civil Service College and performance-based evaluation systems have further professionalized public administration, ensuring that government agencies remain both competent and citizen-focused.

Globally, Mauritius is often recognized as Africa’s most competitive and investment-friendly economy, not just because of business reforms but also because of governance that ensures policy consistency, judicial reliability, and regulatory predictability. Its commitment to human rights, social welfare, and sustainable development continues to position it as a governance model not only for Africa but for other small states worldwide. Mauritius demonstrates that stability, inclusivity, and long-term planning remain the strongest anchors of good governance on the continent.