Mauritius tops Africa in governance

By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi

The 2025 Chandler Good Government Index (CGGI) has once again placed Mauritius at the top of Africa’s governance rankings, with Rwanda and Botswana following closely as regional leaders.

Despite Africa recording the lowest average governance score globally, the continent shows signs of gradual but meaningful improvement.

The latest Index, launched regionally at an event in Pretoria, South Africa, brought together policymakers, academics and governance practitioners to discuss the findings and their implications for Africa’s development.

According to the Director of Knowledge at the Chandler Institute of Governance, the 2025 edition reflects both challenges and progress.

“As a region, Africa still has significant work to do in improving the quality of governance. However, the recent progress recorded suggests an upward trajectory. Even in a challenging global environment, high-performing African countries are making governance advances that can inspire peers across the continent,” he said.

Out of 120 countries ranked globally, Mauritius (51), Rwanda (59), Botswana (61), Morocco (75) and South Africa (77) emerged as Africa’s top five performers.

Mauritius has retained its position as Africa’s top-ranked country in governance for the fifth consecutive year, reflecting decades of consistent investment in institutional development. Rwanda has earned global recognition as the best-performing low-income country, proving that effective governance is not solely dependent on national wealth.

Botswana has recorded notable progress in judicial quality and efficiency, largely driven by digitalisation reforms. Morocco continues to advance in data transparency and digital infrastructure, signalling a strategic shift towards technology-led governance.

South Africa, despite facing fiscal constraints, remains a key benchmark for institutional capacity on the continent.

One of the standout stories of the 2025 CGGI is Tanzania, which has shown the strongest improvement over the past five years. Since the Index was first published in 2021, Tanzania has climbed from 82nd to 78th place globally, making it one of Africa’s most promising governance reformers.

The country’s Digital Tanzania Project has expanded the use of technology in governance and service delivery, while reforms such as the Data Protection Act are laying the groundwork for improved digital security and administrative efficiency.

“Good government is built over decades, but every step forward matters. The achievements we see in these African countries today, from digitalisation to reforms in public institutions, are building blocks for long-term transformation,” Mr Naidu remarked.

While some countries have shown progress, the Index notes that Africa’s average governance score remains the lowest of all global regions. Of the 28 African countries assessed, only Rwanda and Tanzania improved their rankings between 2021 and 2025.

The report highlights financial stewardship as a major area of concern. Fiscal tightening, debt burdens and limited domestic revenues continue to constrain governments across the continent. Institutional weaknesses, particularly in public administration and policy implementation, remain significant barriers to progress.

Yet, the continent’s demographic profile offers hope. With nearly 70 percent of Sub-Saharan Africa’s population under 30, governments that succeed in delivering on jobs, education and inclusive growth could unlock immense opportunities for economic transformation.

The CGGI is regarded as one of the most comprehensive tools for measuring governance effectiveness.

It assesses 120 countries across seven pillars: leadership and foresight, robust laws and policies, strong institutions, financial stewardship, attractive marketplace, global influence and reputation, and helping people rise.

Built by practitioners for practitioners, the Index is intended as a diagnostic and benchmarking tool for policymakers. Governments can track progress, identify weaknesses and adopt best practices from peer nations.

“The Chandler Good Government Index is about recognising progress, fostering peer-to-peer learning and inspiring improvements. We see it as a practical guide for governments committed to building long-term capabilities and improving service delivery,” Mr Naidu explained.

He also stressed that the Chandler Institute of Governance remains committed to working alongside African governments to share insights and strengthen institutions.

“Our aim is to build a more resilient, inclusive future by helping governments innovate, reform and better serve their people,” Mr Naidu added.