African countries with high female employment-to-population ratios are better positioned for long-term economic growth, equitable society, and poverty reduction.
- Business Insider Africa presents the top 5 African countries with the highest employed female population.
- This list is courtesy of Statista.
- Nigeria ranks number 1 on the list.
The degree of female employment participation is closely linked to the economic and social growth of Africa.
Higher household earnings, increased social equity, and higher economic growth are all advantages of nations with high female employment-to-population ratios.
Women in the workplace are essential for long-term success in a continent where gender inequality has long existed.
The immediate effect that increased female employment has on economic growth is among its most important benefits. Women’s full participation in the workforce boosts overall economic production and increases productivity and creativity.
High female employment rates in African nations are frequently associated with more economic diversity and resilience, which lessens reliance on historically male-dominated industries.
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Furthermore, a high female employment-to-population ratio is closely associated with poverty alleviation. When women work, they may contribute to household income, raising the standard of living for families.
This financial empowerment allows families to provide better education, healthcare, and nourishment for their children, resulting in a circle of intergenerational prosperity.
In many African nations, women are more likely than males to reinvest their earnings in their families and communities, multiplying the beneficial economic impact.

Typically, women bring diverse perspectives and ideas to the workplace, which, over time, has generated some great ideas.
African nations with high female employment ratios have more successful small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), since women entrepreneurs play an important role in fueling economic activity.
Additionally, firms that promote gender diversity tend to do better monetarily and are more adaptive to shifting economic environments.
With that said, here are the African countries with the highest female employment-to-population ratios worldwide in 2023, according to Statista.
Top 5 African countries with the highest employed female population
Rank | Country | Female employment-to-population ratio | Global rank |
---|---|---|---|
1. | Nigeria | 78.54% | 4th |
2. | Burundi | 78.24% | 5th |
3. | Tanzania | 75.23% | 12th |
4. | Benin | 74.89% | 13th |
5. | Niger | 74.51% | 14th |