A new assessment of gender equality and economic inclusion has identified ten African countries where women are experiencing greater access to economic opportunities, from employment and entrepreneurship to financial independence and property ownership.
- Top 10 African countries identified for expanding economic opportunities for women
- Progress attributed to legislation, financial inclusion strategies, and access to education and skills development
- Liberia and Botswana stand out for institutional support and public policy promoting job security and access to capital
The ranking reflects a growing shift across parts of the continent, where governments, institutions, and communities are working to break down traditional barriers and create a more level playing field for women in the workforce and business sectors.
Below is a look at the African countries leading the way in expanding economic opportunities for women according to Global Gender Gap Report 2024.
DON’T MISS THIS: Top 10 African countries with the most female researchers
Top 10 African Countries Advancing Women’s Economic Empowerment
| Rank | Country |
|---|---|
| 1 | Liberia |
| 2 | Botswana |
| 3 | Eswatini |
| 4 | Togo |
| 5 | Kenya |
| 6 | Zimbabwe |
| 7 | Burundi |
| 8 | Namibia |
| 9 | Madagascar |
| 10 | Ghana |
Why these countries stand out
Across these nations, the economic empowerment of women is being prioritised through legislation, financial inclusion strategies, and access to education and skills development. These countries have made notable progress in creating environments where women can thrive as entrepreneurs, professionals, and decision-makers.
In countries like Liberia and Botswana, institutional support and public policy have paved the way for better job security and access to capital. Meanwhile, Kenya and Ghana are witnessing a rise in women-led start-ups and SMEs, supported by fintech innovations and digital banking services.
A Call for Continued Action
While these rankings are encouraging, there remains significant work to be done across the continent. Many women still face systemic challenges, including wage gaps, limited land ownership rights, and societal norms that restrict economic participation.
DON’T MISS THIS: Top 10 countries with the highest female employment in agriculture, forestry, and fishing
Stakeholders across government, civil society, and the private sector are urged to intensify efforts to eliminate these barriers and ensure that progress is inclusive and sustainable.
As countries like Togo, Namibia, and Eswatini demonstrate, deliberate policies and focused investments in women’s economic empowerment can yield impactful results—not just for women, but for broader national development.
