Africa is facing a major infrastructure challenge that has been a hindrance to its economic and social development for a long time. Insufficient infrastructure affects every sector, limiting trade, investment, and access to essential services. Financial constraints also play a significant role in this issue, as limited budgets and high debt loads often prevent countries from allocating the necessary resources to fix roads, power grids, and other crucial infrastructure.
According to the African Development Bank (AfDB), Africa needs between $130 and $170 billion annually to meet its infrastructure demands. However, there is a substantial gap of up to $100 billion each year. This infrastructure deficit continues to impede growth in many African countries, where rapidly growing populations outpace the development of urban facilities, putting a strain on cities and stretching resources thin.
To address this challenge, African governments, private investors, and international financial institutions are coming together to find ways to bridge the funding gap. Morocco leads the pack in infrastructure improvements, with Egypt closely following, and Mauritius in third place.
On the other end of the spectrum, South Sudan ranks lowest in infrastructure development across the continent, according to the 2024 Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG). This ranking is followed by the Central African Republic and Chad as the countries with the least improved infrastructure in Africa.
Below are the top 10 African countries with the least improved infrastructure:
1. South Sudan
2. Central African Republic
3. Chad
4. Eritrea
5. Guinea-Bissau
6. Somalia
7. DR Congo
8. Congo Republic
9. Liberia
10. Burundi
These rankings highlight the urgent need for increased investment and strategic planning to address the infrastructure challenges in these countries. By prioritizing infrastructure development, African nations can unlock economic growth, improve living standards, and create a more sustainable future for their citizens.
