Top 10 Worst Governed Countries in Africa 2024

The Chandler Good Government Index, Zimbabwe tops the list of the worst governed countries in Africa, while Nigeria was ranked the third worst governed in Africa and one of the worst governed countries in the world.

The report noted that the ability to handle corruption properly is the strongest indicator of good governance. Thus the CGGI ranked Nigeria 102 out of 104 countries with a score of 0.319 points.

The CGGI explained that the ranking came during the COVID-19 pandemic, which exposed the strengths and weaknesses in institutions, laws, and leadership in countries as governance decides the success of these countries.

Worldwide, Finland topped the list with 0.848 points ahead of Switzerland and Singapore, but on the African continent, Mauritius scored 0.5670, placing it at number 38 on the index and is Africa’s best governed country.

The index used 34 parameters to measure the success of the countries. These include leadership and foresight; robust laws and policies; strong institutions; financial stewardship; attractive marketplace; global influence and reputation; and helping people rise.

Top 10 Worst Governed Countries In Africa 2024

1. Zimbabwe (Score: 0.262)

Zimbabwe tops Chandler Good Government’s list of worst governed countries in Africa, reflecting systemic issues in governance. The country has faced political instability, economic challenges, and allegations of human rights abuses. The government’s ability to provide essential services and ensure the well-being of its citizens has been severely compromised.

2. Mali (Score: 0.283)

Mali’s governance struggles are evident in its low ranking on the index as the second worst governed country in Africa. The nation has been grappling with political instability, security concerns, and challenges in ensuring effective public administration. The impact of these issues on Mali’s development and the well-being of its population is reflected in its poor governance score.

3. Nigeria (Score: 0.288)

Despite being one of Africa’s largest economies, Nigeria faces governance challenges that hinder its overall development. Issues such as corruption, inadequate infrastructure, extreme poverty, insecurity and political instability contribute to its low ranking on the Chandler Good Government Index.

4. Mozambique (Score: 0.302)

Mozambique’s governance woes are multifaceted, ranging from political instability to economic vulnerabilities. The government’s ineffectiveness in providing basic services and ensuring stability is reflected in its ranking on the index.

5. Burkina Faso (Score: 0.310)

Burkina Faso faces governance challenges that impact its social and economic progress. Political instability, coupled with issues related to public administration, contribute to its low ranking.

6. Zambia (Score: 0.312)

Zambia grapples with governance issues that affect its overall stability and development. Economic challenges, political uncertainties, and issues related to corruption contribute to its low score on the Chandler Good Government Index.

7. Ethiopia (Score: 0.321)

Despite being a significant player in Africa, Ethiopia faces governance challenges that impact its overall development. Issues such as political tensions, human rights concerns, and challenges in public administration contribute to its ranking on the index as the seventh worst governed country in Africa.

8. Madagascar (Score: 0.324)

Madagascar grapples with governance challenges that hinder its socio-economic development. Political instability, coupled with issues related to corruption and public services, contribute to its low ranking on the list.

9. Malawi (Score: 0.326)

Malawi faces governance challenges that impact its ability to provide effective public services and ensure stability. According to the the author, the government’s efforts to address corruption and strengthen public institutions are crucial for improving its ranking on the Chandler Good Government Index.

10. Uganda (Score: 0.386)

Uganda, while ranking higher than the other countries on this list, still faces governance challenges that hinder its progress. Issues such as political stability, corruption, and limitations in public administration contribute to its ranking.

Top 10 Best Governed Country In Africa 2024

Revised in November 2024