The 2025 Chandler Good Government Index (CGGI) has ranked Mauritius as the best-governed country in Africa for the fifth straight year, followed by Rwanda in second place and Botswana in third.
The announcement was made by Dinesh Naidu, Director (Knowledge) at the Chandler Institute of Governance, during the regional launch of the Index in Pretoria.
The CGGI, now in its fifth edition, is among the most comprehensive global assessments of government capability and effectiveness. It evaluates 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.
Despite improvements in a few countries, the index indicates that Africa remains the region with the lowest average governance score. Nonetheless, there has been a modest improvement in the area between 2024 and 2025.
“As a region, Africa still has significant work to do in improving the quality of governance,” notes Naidu during the launch. He adds, “Even in a challenging global environment, high-performance African countries are making governance advances that can inspire peers across the continent.”
Among the continent’s top five performers in the 2025 rankings are Mauritius (51), Rwanda (59), Botswana (61), Morocco (75), and South Africa (77). Notably, Rwanda was also recognised as the world’s best-performing low-income country, underscoring that effective governance is not contingent on national wealth.
Botswana has made commendable improvements in its judiciary system through digitalisation reforms. Morocco has advanced in data transparency and digital infrastructure. Despite ongoing fiscal pressures, South Africa remains a regional reference point for institutional capacity.
While not among the top five, Tanzania has recorded the most improvement of any African country since the CGGI began in 2021, climbing from 82nd to 78th globally. This upward shift reflects initiatives such as the national Digital Governance Project and the adoption of structural reforms like the Data Protection Act.
“Good government is built over decades, but every step forward matters,” Naidu emphasised.
Adding;
“What is encouraging is the progress in areas such as strong institutions and digital governance. These reforms show that even in a tough global environment, progress is possible.”
Despite these positive developments, financial stewardship remains a significant challenge across Africa, with tightening fiscal envelopes and mounting government debt impacting many countries. Yet, the region’s youthful population, nearly 70 per cent of Sub-Saharan Africans are under 30, presents a valuable opportunity.
“If governments can deliver jobs, education, and inclusive growth, Africa’s youthful demographics could transform the continent’s future,” Naidu said.
The CGGI serves as a practical tool for governments built “by practitioners for practitioners” to benchmark progress, pinpoint gaps, and strengthen institutions. It offers actionable insights across its seven pillars to help public administrations improve effectiveness and service delivery.
“The Chandler Institute of Governance remains committed to working alongside African governments, sharing insights, and strengthening public institutions to build a more resilient and inclusive future,” Naidu stated.
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