Top 10 African Countries with the Smallest Gender Gap in 2025

In Summary

• Five African nations rank among the world’s top 20 in gender parity, proving that the continent is helping set the global standard for equality.
• Rwanda and Namibia lead globally in women’s political representation, occupying more than 50 percent of parliamentary seats.
• Mobile banking, quota systems, and gender-responsive budgeting are African-led innovations driving measurable equality gains.

Deep Dive!!

Lagos, Nigeria, Wednesday, September 10 – The 2025 gender gap report places Africa at the center of one of the world’s most significant social transformations. In Africa, women are gaining greater access to education, healthcare, and political power, with several countries now ranking among the most equal globally. 

Africa’s progress on gender parity is not uniform, but its standout performers prove how deliberate policy and grassroots action can accelerate change. Namibia and Rwanda have emerged as global leaders in political representation, ensuring women hold not just symbolic seats but real decision-making authority. Countries like Cape Verde and South Africa reinforce the trend through constitutional guarantees, legal protections, and inclusive education systems that consistently narrow the gap between men and women.

What makes this transformation distinct is that it is African-driven. Gender-responsive budgeting, pioneered in countries like Tanzania and Namibia, directs state resources into education, health, and entrepreneurship for women. Mobile money platforms across East and Southern Africa have given millions of women independent access to finance, bypassing traditional barriers in banking. Civil society organizations, often led by women, have pushed reforms on property rights, workplace protections, and representation, embedding equality into both law and culture.

The broader context is that gender equality in Africa is not just about fairness; it is about national development. Studies link women’s participation in governance and the economy to higher GDP growth, stronger community resilience, and more effective conflict resolution. In countries like Liberia and Burundi, women have taken leading roles in peacebuilding and reconstruction, showing how empowerment strengthens not only individuals but entire societies.

This ranking of the top ten African countries with the smallest gender gap in 2025 highlights more than numbers. It reveals how political will, institutional reform, and social innovation are shifting the landscape of equality across the continent. Africa’s leading performers demonstrate that progress is possible and measurable, positioning them as a serious contributor to the global movement for gender parity.

10. Tanzania

Tanzania’s 2025 gender parity score of 0.736 places it tenth on the continent, reflecting clear gains in education and health but lagging in outcomes in political and economic power. Over the past decade, the government has expanded free basic education, leading to near-equal enrolment of girls and boys at the primary level. Maternal health has also improved, with a steady decline in mortality rates supported by international health partnerships and new regional hospitals. These gains give Tanzania a stronger foundation than in past years, but they also highlight the uneven distribution of progress between rural and urban areas.

The barriers are most visible in economic life. Women make up the backbone of Tanzania’s agriculture sector, yet most work informally without land rights or legal protections. Access to finance remains uneven, with formal banks granting fewer loans to women-led businesses. Even where laws exist to promote equality, traditional practices in rural regions continue to restrict women’s control over assets and household decisions. Political representation shows a similar split: constitutional quotas guarantee women's seats in parliament, but their presence in senior ministerial posts and cabinet roles remains limited. 

Reform efforts, however, are reshaping the landscape. Tanzania has introduced gender-responsive budgeting to direct resources toward health, education, and female entrepreneurship. Mobile money platforms such as M-Pesa are transforming women’s financial independence, giving millions the ability to save, transact, and build small businesses outside traditional banking. Civil society organizations are also pressing for reforms in inheritance laws, workplace protections, and electoral fairness. Taken together, these steps show a nation where the gender gap remains wide but where both government policy and grassroots action are laying the groundwork for longer-term change.

9. Mozambique

Mozambique has a score of 0.738, showing progress in education and political inclusion but ongoing struggles in health and economic opportunity. Girls’ enrolment in secondary schools has steadily increased, supported by government programs to reduce early marriage and expand rural schooling. Women now hold a significant share of parliamentary seats, making Mozambique one of the stronger performers in Southern Africa for female political representation. These shifts reflect a state commitment to gender equality, even amid the economic and security challenges facing the country.

However, Mozambique continues to record high maternal mortality rates compared to regional peers, and many women still face barriers to accessing reproductive health services. Economically, women are concentrated in informal agriculture, petty trade, and subsistence activities that provide little upward mobility. Access to land and credit is limited, with traditional inheritance systems often excluding women from ownership. While women are visible in parliament, decision-making in cabinet and senior government offices remains male-dominated, keeping the influence of women’s voices uneven across governance structures.

Reforms and resilience efforts are emerging. Mozambique has worked with international partners to improve rural maternal care, including mobile clinics and community health workers who focus on women. The government has also expanded small business grants for female entrepreneurs, particularly in urban centers where access to banking services is stronger. Civil society organizations are pressing for reforms in family law and property rights, while grassroots movements in rural areas are pushing back against harmful practices like child marriage. These reforms, coupled with strong representation in parliament, position Mozambique as a country making real strides toward closing the gender gap, even if deep inequalities remain entrenched.

8. Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s 2025 gender parity score of 0.747 highlights a country where education and activism are driving progress, but economic instability and governance challenges still widen the gap. Literacy rates for women are among the highest in Africa, reflecting decades of investment in education since independence. Girls continue to achieve near-equal enrolment in schools, and women’s groups have become influential in shaping social policy debates. These strengths provide Zimbabwe with a solid foundation, setting it apart from countries where education remains a bottleneck.

The picture becomes less favorable in the economy and politics. Years of economic crisis have left women heavily dependent on informal trade and subsistence farming, with few pathways to formal employment or capital. Inflation and currency instability have eroded the earnings of women traders, who form the backbone of cross-border markets in Southern Africa. Politically, women hold seats in parliament due to quota systems, but senior executive roles are largely dominated by men. The space for women in decision-making has narrowed in periods of political repression, leaving many reliant on civil society platforms rather than direct influence in government structures.

Recent reforms and grassroots resilience show the potential for change. Women-led organizations have successfully lobbied for stronger protections against gender-based violence, while donor-backed programs are targeting female entrepreneurs with credit and training. The expansion of mobile banking has provided women with new tools for financial independence, and youth-led activism is pushing gender equality into broader conversations about democracy and governance.

7. Eswatini

Eswatini enters the 2025 ranking with a score of 0.748, reflecting modest progress in education and health but persistent gaps in political participation and cultural norms. The country has achieved near parity in primary education enrolment, and maternal health outcomes have improved with expanded access to basic clinics. Women are also visible in small-scale trade and agriculture, playing a vital role in sustaining rural livelihoods. These gains, though important, mask deeper structural barriers that continue to define the gender gap.

The challenges in Eswatini are rooted in politics and tradition. As Africa’s last absolute monarchy, political power is highly centralized, leaving limited room for women’s participation in decision-making. Women face strong cultural restrictions under customary law, including barriers to land ownership and inheritance. Despite constitutional reforms meant to protect women’s rights, implementation has been inconsistent, and many women still rely on traditional structures that reinforce male authority. The result is a sharp contrast between gains in education and health versus stagnation in political and economic empowerment.

Change is being driven mainly by civil society and international partnerships. Women’s organizations have pushed for legal reforms on property rights, workplace equality, and protection from gender-based violence. Global health initiatives are also working with local networks to expand reproductive healthcare, particularly in rural communities where access remains limited. The growth of microfinance has begun to give women more independence in business, helping them navigate restrictions in the formal banking sector. While Eswatini’s monarchy remains resistant to deeper reforms, these shifts show how grassroots movements are carving out space for progress even in one of the continent’s most restrictive environments.

6. Burundi

Burundi ranks sixth in 2025 with a gender parity score of 0.756, reflecting notable gains in political representation and community-driven reforms. Women occupy a significant share of parliamentary seats, making the country one of Africa’s stronger performers in legislative inclusion. Education has also seen steady improvement, with more girls completing primary and secondary levels compared to a decade ago. These changes have been reinforced by grassroots networks that encourage women’s participation in local councils and cooperatives, creating a stronger base for future progress.

The country’s economic realities still weigh heavily, with many women concentrated in subsistence farming and informal markets. Access to land ownership remains inconsistent, and earnings from small trade are often unstable. Yet these challenges have not erased the role women play in sustaining families and communities. In fact, their resilience has made them central to agricultural productivity, food security, and peacebuilding efforts, especially in rural provinces where women are the backbone of household economies.

Reforms continue to strengthen Burundi’s trajectory. The government has supported microfinance schemes that give women access to credit, and international organizations are working alongside local groups to expand training for female entrepreneurs. New policies also emphasize women’s role in peace and security, acknowledging their contribution to post-conflict stability. These steps, though gradual, highlight how Burundi is steadily building on its political gains and pushing towards broader economic empowerment. The gender gap remains, but the direction of progress shows a society where women are increasingly shaping both governance and community life.

5. Liberia

Liberia ranks fifth in 2025 with a gender parity score of 0.760, standing out as one of West Africa’s leaders in political empowerment for women. The country made global history by electing Africa’s first female president, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, whose legacy continues to influence women’s participation in governance. Today, women hold significant seats in parliament and are increasingly active in policymaking, advocacy, and grassroots leadership. Education for girls has also expanded in recent years, supported by government programs and international partnerships aimed at reducing barriers in rural regions.

The country’s challenges primarily lie in its economy and social structures. Many women remain engaged in informal trade and agriculture, where income is low and protections are minimal. Access to credit and land ownership is still uneven, especially in rural communities where traditional practices can restrict women’s rights. Health outcomes also reflect ongoing gaps, with maternal mortality rates among the highest in West Africa, even as access to clinics and reproductive services is gradually improving.

Reforms and social movements are shaping a more hopeful trajectory. Civil society organizations remain highly influential, pressing for stronger protections against gender-based violence and promoting women’s inclusion in peacebuilding. Government-backed programs are expanding training for female entrepreneurs, and mobile banking continues to grow as a tool for women’s financial independence. Liberia’s position in the top five demonstrates both how far it has come and how much potential remains. With a strong political foundation and rising economic initiatives, the country is steadily closing its gender gap and setting an example in the region.

4. Rwanda

Rwanda holds a 2025 gender parity score of 0.762, making it one of the most recognized examples of progress on the continent. The country leads the world in women’s representation in parliament, with over 60 percent of seats held by women. This achievement is not symbolic; female lawmakers have been central to passing reforms on land rights, education, and health. Girls’ enrolment in schools is near universal, and literacy rates among young women continue to rise. These outcomes stem from deliberate policy, where gender equality is embedded in the national constitution and supported by strong government institutions.

Women remain underrepresented in higher levels of the private sector and often face barriers in accessing business capital. In rural areas, cultural traditions and domestic responsibilities still weigh heavily on women, limiting their economic opportunities compared to their urban counterparts. Despite these gaps, the country’s consistent political framework has ensured that equality remains a national priority, unlike in many states where implementation is inconsistent.

Reforms and innovations continue to expand Rwanda’s progress. Programs supporting female entrepreneurship have gained momentum, and the government’s emphasis on digital inclusion is opening new opportunities for women in technology and business. Civil society groups and cooperatives also play an active role, giving women a stronger voice in agriculture and local governance. Rwanda’s example shows how institutional reforms, when matched with political will, can drive rapid and sustained change. Its place in the top five reflects not only progress but also the possibility of Africa shaping global conversations on gender parity.

3. South Africa

South Africa ranks third in Africa in 2025 with a gender parity score of 0.767, reflecting steady progress in political inclusion, legal frameworks, and access to education. Women occupy nearly half of the seats in parliament, one of the highest rates globally, and constitutional guarantees ensure strong legal protections against discrimination. Education has long been a strength, with girls achieving near parity in enrolment and outperforming boys in certain academic levels. South Africa’s visible role in continental and international forums also allows it to project leadership on gender equality beyond its borders.

Still, the gender gap remains most visible in the economy and in the safety of women. Wage inequality persists, with women earning significantly less than men in formal employment, and senior corporate leadership remains dominated by men. Gender-based violence remains a national crisis, with some of the highest reported rates in the world, despite the existence of comprehensive laws and policies to address it. These realities reveal the gap between progressive legal frameworks and the lived experiences of many South African women, particularly those in low-income communities.

The country continues to push reforms to address these gaps. Investment in female entrepreneurship has expanded through state-backed funds and private sector partnerships, while digital and tech training programs are opening doors for young women in new industries. Civil society movements remain strong, driving accountability on gender-based violence and pressing for equal pay legislation. South Africa ranks among the African countries with the highest female entrepreneurship rate in 2025

2. Cape Verde

Cape Verde ranks second in Africa in 2025 with a gender parity score of 0.769, showing how consistent policy and social investment can close gaps even in a small island economy. Education has been a major driver of progress: literacy rates among women are among the highest in West Africa, and school enrolment for girls is nearly universal. Health indicators also stand out, with maternal mortality significantly lower than the regional average thanks to steady investment in healthcare infrastructure. Politically, Cape Verde has implemented strong frameworks for women’s participation, supported by quotas and civil society partnerships that keep gender equality at the center of governance.

Economic empowerment, however, still faces limitations. The island’s narrow economy, which is heavily reliant on tourism, fisheries, and remittances, creates limited formal opportunities for women. Many women work in small-scale services and informal trade, where protections and access to credit remain minimal. While women are visible in parliament, their influence in higher economic decision-making roles is less pronounced. These structural constraints reflect the challenge of turning social gains into lasting economic transformation in a small-market economy.

Reforms continue to shape Cape Verde’s progress. The government has introduced gender-responsive budgeting and expanded programs for female entrepreneurs in tourism and fisheries. International partnerships have supported digital skills training for women and increased their access to microfinance. Civil society organizations remain vocal, pushing for stronger protections against gender-based violence and greater inclusion in policymaking. Cape Verde’s high score demonstrates how smaller nations can serve as regional leaders in closing the gender gap, proving that size and resources are not barriers when strong institutions and policies are in place.

1. Namibia

Namibia leads Africa in 2025 with a gender parity score of 0.811, placing it not only first on the continent but also among the highest-ranked countries globally. Its strength lies in political empowerment and progressive legal frameworks. Women hold nearly half of the seats in parliament, and the government has consistently enforced gender quotas across multiple levels of decision-making. Education outcomes are also strong, with girls achieving high levels of enrolment and completion, supported by targeted policies that address rural access. Health indicators reinforce this progress, with maternal mortality rates steadily declining as the state expands primary healthcare access.

The economic picture is more mixed. Namibia’s mining and energy sectors are still male-dominated, and women remain underrepresented in senior positions across private industry. Rural women are heavily engaged in subsistence farming, with limited access to land titles and credit. These inequalities reflect structural barriers that policies alone cannot fully overcome. Yet Namibia’s commitment to equality has ensured that such issues remain part of the national agenda, setting it apart from countries where implementation often lags behind promises.

Reforms and civic engagement continue to push Namibia forward. Gender-responsive budgeting is actively shaping national spending priorities, while entrepreneurship programs for women are supported by both government and international partners. Civil society groups are particularly strong in Namibia, advocating for workplace equality, protection against gender-based violence, and greater access to property rights. The combination of political will, grassroots activism, and legal guarantees has given Namibia a consistency in progress unmatched on the continent. Its leadership at the top of this ranking shows how deliberate policy, when sustained across decades, can transform the prospects of women and position a country as a continental model for gender equality.