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The latest World Economics Governance Index 2026 highlights important governance gains across Africa, with several Commonwealth countries ranked among the continent’s top performers.

Among the top 10 best-governed nations in Africa, eight are Commonwealth members: Mauritius, Namibia, South Africa, Botswana, Ghana, Malawi, Sierra Leone and The Gambia.

The Index points to steady improvements in political rights and press freedom in parts of the continent, while also noting ongoing challenges in strengthening the rule of law and tackling corruption. The continued presence of Commonwealth countries at the top of governance rankings reflects the importance of institutional transparency, regulatory stability and democratic openness.

Complementary rankings provide additional perspective. The 2025 Chandler Good Government Index places Mauritius, Rwanda, Botswana, Morocco and South Africa among the region’s leading performers. Meanwhile, the 2024 Ibrahim Index of African Governance identifies Seychelles and Mauritius as top scorers, while noting broader continental pressures linked to security and democratic concerns.

For business and investment, governance remains fundamental. Stable institutions, policy predictability and trusted legal frameworks are central to attracting capital, enabling cross-border trade and supporting long-term economic growth.

As CWEIC continues to promote trade and investment across Commonwealth Africa, these findings underscore both the strength of the network and the importance of sustained reform to ensure that governance progress translates into tangible economic opportunity.

Read the full 2026 WEG Index here: https://www.worldeconomics.com/Indicator-Data/ESG/Governance.aspx