The 2025 Chandler Good Government Index (CGGI) has ranked Mauritius as the best-performing government in Africa, followed by Rwanda and Botswana. While Africa continues to record the lowest average governance scores globally, the region has shown modest improvements between 2024 and 2025.
The findings were highlighted during the regional launch of the Index in Pretoria, where policymakers, academics, and governance experts gathered to discuss Africa’s progress.
“As a region, Africa still has significant work to do in improving the quality of governance,” said Dinesh Naidu, Director (Knowledge) at the Chandler Institute 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.”
Africa’s Top Performers
Now in its fifth year, the CGGI is regarded as one of the most comprehensive measures of government effectiveness worldwide, covering 120 countries across seven governance pillars.
In the 2025 rankings, the top five performers in Africa were:
- Mauritius (51st globally) – Highest-ranked African nation for the fifth consecutive year.
- Rwanda (59th) – Recognised as the world’s best-performing low-income country.
- Botswana (61st) – Strengthened its judiciary through digitalization reforms.
- Morocco (75th) – Progressed in data transparency and digital infrastructure.
- South Africa (77th) – Maintains strong institutional capacity despite fiscal pressures.
Although outside the top five, Tanzania emerged as Africa’s most improved country since the CGGI’s inception in 2021, rising from 82nd to 78th globally. Initiatives such as the Digital Tanzania Project and the introduction of the Data Protection Act have positioned the country as a regional leader in digital governance.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite these gains, the Index shows that Africa’s average governance score remains the lowest of all world regions. Fiscal sustainability remains a pressing challenge, with debt burdens and limited financial resources constraining many governments.
Yet, the continent’s demographics present a compelling opportunity. With 70% of Sub-Saharan Africa’s population under 30, countries that deliver on education, job creation, and inclusive growth could unlock significant long-term benefits.
“Good government is built over decades, but every step forward matters,” Naidu stressed. “The achievements we see today – from digitalisation to institutional reforms – are building blocks for long-term transformation.”
Benchmarking Progress
The CGGI evaluates governments across seven pillars: Leadership and Foresight, Robust Laws and Policies, Strong Institutions, Financial Stewardship, Attractive Marketplace, Global Influence and Reputation, and Helping People Rise.
Designed as a practical diagnostic tool, the Index allows governments to benchmark progress, identify gaps, and adopt proven practices from peers.
“The Chandler Good Government Index is about recognising progress, fostering peer-to-peer learning, and inspiring improvements,” Naidu noted. “We see it as a practical guide for governments committed to building long-term capabilities and improving service delivery.”
Looking ahead, the Chandler Institute of Governance says it will continue working with African governments to strengthen institutions, share insights, and support reforms that build more resilient and inclusive societies.
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