A Comparison with 2024: Top 10 African Countries Expected to Lead in Innovation by 2025

In Summary

• This index provides a comprehensive overview of how countries are performing across various stages of the innovation cycle, including investments in science, technological progress, and socioeconomic impacts.
• Mauritius leads Africa with a GII score of 30.6, ranking 55th globally. Morocco follows at 66th with a score of 28.8. Other notable African nations include Botswana (87th), Cabo Verde (90th), and Kenya (96th). These rankings are influenced by factors such as investments in science, technological adoption, and infrastructure development.
• As Africa continues to invest in key sectors like renewable energy, technology, and financial services, several countries are poised to enhance their innovation standings by 2025. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is expected to further drive growth, providing modernized and streamlined access for investors, thereby boosting the continent's GDP and foreign direct investment.

Deep Dive!

Africa's innovation landscape is undergoing a transformative phase. The Global Innovation Index (GII) 2024, published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), evaluates the innovation capabilities of 133 economies worldwide. With initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aiming to eliminate tariffs and harmonize trade laws among member countries, the continent is set to witness infrastructural development in power, transportation, and telecommunications. 

This positive trajectory is further supported by economic forecasts, with Africa's growth projected to improve from 3.4% in 2024 to 3.7% in 2025, reflecting recoveries in key economies and ongoing efforts toward regional integration. 

10. Ghana

Ranked 101st globally with a GII score of 20, Ghana is rapidly developing its digital ecosystem. The country is investing heavily in ICT and fintech, with innovations such as mobile money platforms transforming financial inclusion. Ghana's “One District, One Factory” initiative aims to boost local production through technology. By 2025, the country is projected to climb the innovation ladder due to increased government support for startups, particularly in technology and agritech. The growth of innovation hubs in cities like Accra further positions Ghana for sustained progress.

9. Kenya

Kenya ranked 96th globally with a score of 21, has earned its nickname, “Silicon Savannah,” for its thriving tech ecosystem. With innovations like M-Pesa revolutionizing mobile payments, Kenya is at the forefront of fintech in Africa. The country is also making strides in renewable energy, boasting the largest wind farm in sub-Saharan Africa. By 2025, Kenya’s robust digital infrastructure and government-backed initiatives in AI and e-commerce are expected to further enhance its innovation profile.

8. Senegal

Ranked 92nd globally with a GII score of 22, Senegal is emerging as a leader in digital innovation. The Digital Senegal Strategy has laid the groundwork for tech-driven economic growth, emphasizing education, e-governance, and startup incubation. The government’s focus on STEM education and partnerships with international organizations are expected to yield significant returns by 2025. Senegal’s advancements in agriculture technology and fintech position it as a rising innovation hub.

7. Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde, ranked 90th globally with a score of 22.3, is leveraging its political stability and strategic location to attract foreign investments in technology. The government’s emphasis on digital governance and renewable energy has created a fertile environment for innovation. By 2025, Cabo Verde is expected to strengthen its position through collaborations with international tech firms and an increased focus on sustainability and tourism technology.

6. Botswana

Botswana ranked 87th globally with a score of 23.1, has made significant progress in mining innovation and green technology. The country is focusing on research and development to improve mining practices while reducing environmental impact. Botswana’s investment in STEM education and renewable energy projects is projected to drive innovation by 2025. The government’s policies supporting startups in tech and agriculture are key to its future growth.

5. Egypt

Egypt ranked 86th globally with a GII score of 23.7, has emerged as a leader in digital transformation in North Africa. The country’s advancements in artificial intelligence and e-commerce are supported by a robust ICT infrastructure. Initiatives like the Digital Egypt Strategy aim to foster innovation in education, healthcare, and public services. By 2025, Egypt is expected to capitalize on its growing tech-savvy population and international partnerships to solidify its position in global innovation rankings.

4. Tunisia

Ranked 81st globally with a score of 25.4, Tunisia is a hub for innovation in North Africa. The country is leveraging its strong education system and skilled workforce to drive advancements in software development, renewable energy, and biotechnology. Tunisia’s Innovation Strategy 2035 is designed to align its economic growth with sustainable development goals. By 2025, its focus on R&D and government support for startups is expected to yield significant results.

3. South Africa

South Africa, ranked 69th globally with a score of 28.3, remains one of Africa’s most industrialized nations. The country’s diverse economy, supported by strong institutions and infrastructure, enables advancements in renewable energy, healthcare technology, and fintech. Initiatives like the National Development Plan emphasize innovation as a driver of economic growth. By 2025, South Africa is projected to maintain its leading position due to continued investments in R&D and digital transformation.

2. Morocco

Morocco, ranked 66th globally with a score of 28.8, is leveraging renewable energy and industrial innovation to climb the global innovation rankings. The country is a leader in solar energy, with projects like the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex setting benchmarks in renewable technology. Morocco’s industrial strategy emphasizes innovation in the automotive and aerospace sectors, supported by a skilled workforce and foreign investments. By 2025, Morocco is expected to strengthen its position as a regional innovation leader.

1. Mauritius

Mauritius ranked 55th globally with a GII score of 30.6, continues to lead Africa in innovation. The indian ocean island country’s success is attributed to strong institutions, robust infrastructure, and a focus on education. Mauritius has made significant progress in technology adoption, financial services, and renewable energy. Its strategic location as a gateway to African markets and emphasis on research and development ensure its top position. By 2025, Mauritius is projected to further enhance its innovation capabilities, driven by government initiatives and private-sector collaborations.