Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has released its latest World Press Freedom Index, which ranks 180 countries based on the level of press freedom available to journalists. It, however, said press freedom remains highly fragile in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The latest Reporters Without Borders For Press Freedom (RSF) indicates that South Africa, ranked 27 in the world, is the highest ranked country in Africa as far as press freedom is concerned. Namibia is ranked at (28) second in Africa, while Cabo Verde (30), Gabon (41), and Seychelles (45) are all ranked in the top five African countries enjoying press freedom in 2026.
Press freedom has a firm hold in South Africa, Africa’s best ranked country in RSF’s World Press Freedom Index, and enjoys solid guarantees. It is protected by the constitution and is often defended by the courts when under attack from other quarters within the state or by vested interests.”
Press Freedom in Africa: Top 10 Countries Leading the Way in 2026
1. South Africa
South Africa takes the lead as one of the African countries with the highest press freedom scores. With a score of 75.71, Namibia’s commitment to a free press is reflected in its constitutional guarantees and the absence of legal restrictions that might impede the work of journalists. South Africa stands as a shining example of press freedom in Africa.
2. Namibia
Namibia, a nation with a robust media landscape, secures the second position on our list. Boasting a score of 75.35, the country has made commendable progress in ensuring press freedom. Its diverse media outlets contribute to a vibrant and dynamic press environment, exemplifying the dedication to press freedom within the country.
3. Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde, an archipelago off the coast of West Africa, stands out for its commitment to press freedom. With a score of 74.98, the nation has implemented policies that promote media pluralism and safeguard journalists from undue interference, showcasing a model for press freedom in Africa.
4. Gabon
Gabon ranks fourth in Africa for press freedom, placing it among the continent’s leading countries for media openness. The ranking reflects a relatively safer environment for journalists, improved access to information, and fewer restrictions on reporting compared to many other African states, even as concerns around political pressure and media independence still persist.
5. Seychelles
Seychelles follows closely behind Cabo Verde with a press freedom score of 68.56. This island nation in the Indian Ocean has created an atmosphere where journalists can operate independently, contributing to a well-informed citizenry and underscoring the importance of press freedom.
6. Mauritania
Mauritania, with a press freedom score of 67.52, has made significant strides in creating an environment where journalists can operate freely. The nation’s commitment to free expression is crucial for fostering a vibrant democracy and serves as a beacon for press freedom in Africa.
7. Mauritius
Closing our list is Mauritius, with a press freedom score of 67.31. The island nation’s commitment to a free press contributes to a well-informed citizenry and a healthy democratic discourse.
8. Ghana
Ghana, a longstanding advocate for democratic values in Africa, maintains its commitment to press freedom with a score of 67.13. The country’s media landscape continues to thrive, offering diverse perspectives to the public and reinforcing the need for sustained efforts towards press freedom in Africa.
9. Liberia
Liberia, once marred by press restrictions, has made remarkable progress in recent years. With a score of 66.61, the country now provides a conducive environment for journalists, allowing them to report freely without fear of reprisals.
10 Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone, boasting a score of 66.36, has demonstrated advancements in promoting press freedom. The nation’s initiatives to safeguard journalists and uphold their capacity to report independently play an important role in fostering a more transparent and well-informed society.
Press Freedom in Africa: The Top 10 Countries Where Media Is Most Free (2026)
| World Rank | Country | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 27 | South Africa | 75.71 |
| 28 | Namibia | 75.35 |
| 30 | Cabo Verde | 74.98 |
| 41 | Gabon | 70.65 |
| 45 | Seychelles | 68.56 |
| 50 | Mauritania | 67.52 |
| 51 | Mauritius | 67.31 |
| 52 | Ghana | 67.13 |
| 54 | Liberia | 66.36 |
| 56 | Sierra Leone | 66.36 |
The Press Freedom Index is an annual ranking of countries compiled and published by Reporters Without Borders based on the organization’s own assessment of the countries’ press freedom records in the previous year.
The index evaluates media pluralism and independence, media legislative framework and the safety of journalists in addition to the quality of journalism in a country. The RSF indicated that journalists continue to lose their lives in Africa. According to them, over 100 journalists have been killed in Africa over the past 10 years.
