Mauritius, Morocco, and South Africa have emerged as Africa’s top innovation performers in the Global Innovation Index 2025, published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The report ranked 139 countries using 80 indicators covering institutions, human capital, research, infrastructure, and business sophistication.
Mauritius placed 53rd globally, confirming its position as a continental leader thanks to strong institutions, an advanced education system, and investment-friendly policies. Morocco achieved its highest-ever ranking at 57th, fueled by advances in renewable energy, industrialization, and digitalization. South Africa ranked 61st, driven by its universities and R&D ecosystem.
Other African performers include the Seychelles (75th) and Tunisia (76th), both benefiting from digitalization and strong human capital. Egypt secured 86th, reflecting its growing startup ecosystem, while Botswana (87th) leveraged governance and financial sector growth. Senegal (89th) and Namibia (91st) were noted as outperformers relative to development levels, while Cape Verde rounded out the top ten at 95th, supported by mobile service growth and tech entrepreneurship initiatives.
Though no African country made the global top 50, the report highlights the upward trajectory of Morocco, Senegal, and Namibia as examples of Africa’s diverse innovation drivers. Internationally, Switzerland, Sweden, and the United States retained the top three positions.
Top 10 Innovative African Economies (2025 Global Ranking):
- Mauritius – 53
- Morocco – 57
- South Africa – 61
- Seychelles – 75
- Tunisia – 76
- Egypt – 86
- Botswana – 87
- Senegal – 89
- Namibia – 91
- Cape Verde – 95
