African countries are making remarkable progress in achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9, which focuses on industry, innovation, and infrastructure. These advancements are key to driving sustainable growth, increasing competitiveness, and preparing for challenges like climate change and public health crises. Investments in energy, transport, and digital infrastructure are helping reduce costs, boost productivity, and attract further investments, contributing to economic diversification and resilience.
Kenya’s thriving digital economy, propelled by innovation hubs and mobile connectivity, serves as an exemplary model of SDG 9 success. Other African nations are also fostering robust infrastructure and innovation ecosystems, paving the way for transformative economic development.
SDG 9 offers a blueprint for inclusive, sustainable development, with many countries across the continent seeing improvements in their infrastructure, innovation, and industrial sectors.
According to the Mo Ibrahim Foundation’s Financing Africa report, here are the ten African countries with the highest SDG 9 ratings:
- South Africa – Leading the continent with a high SDG 9 rating of 70.8, South Africa excels in infrastructure and innovation. It has developed efficient transport systems, robust energy networks, and advanced technological ecosystems, making it a hub for regional connectivity and industrial growth.
- Egypt – With an SDG 9 rating of 57.9, Egypt has made significant investments in infrastructure and digital innovation. Its efforts to expand transportation systems have positioned it as a leader in North Africa’s economic transformation.
- Tunisia – Ranking third with a rating of 55.9, Tunisia has focused on industrial growth and technological innovation, creating a foundation for sustainable development and enhanced economic opportunities.
- Morocco – With an SDG 9 rating of 55.1, Morocco continues to strengthen infrastructure and drive innovation, particularly through renewable energy projects and the development of industrial parks, cementing its role as a regional leader.
- Algeria – Ranking fifth with a rating of 53.9, Algeria has made substantial investments in energy infrastructure and modernization efforts to support industrial activities and technological advancements.
- Botswana – With a rating of 53.5, Botswana is steadily developing its infrastructure, focusing on reliable systems to support economic activities and ensure long-term growth.
- Mauritius – Achieving a rating of 51.8, Mauritius stands out for its advanced financial systems and focus on technological innovation, which have strengthened its global competitiveness.
- Ghana – Ghana, with an SDG 9 rating of 46.8, has invested in improving its transportation networks and technology-driven solutions, aiming to enhance economic resilience and development.
- Cabo Verde – With a rating of 41.0, Cabo Verde has prioritized infrastructure projects to enhance connectivity and innovation, focusing on developing its digital economy.
- Eswatini – Eswatini rounds out the top 10 with an SDG 9 rating of 40.9. The country has invested in transportation, energy, and communication infrastructure to support sustainable industrialization.
