The Top 7 Most Peaceful Countries in Africa

While parts of Africa rank as some of the least peaceful regions in the world, there are still many peaceful countries in Africa. 

Recently, we analyzed the Global Peace Index (GPI), a leading measure of global peacefulness produced by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). The report shed light on many indicators of peace, measuring 99.7% of the global population. It looked at trends like “the level of Societal Safety and Security, the extent of Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict, and the degree of Militarisation.”

Throughout Africa specifically, Ethiopia and South Africa — along with 79 other countries, experienced increased levels of conflict. Additionally, “the rise in costs has increased food insecurity and political instability globally, with Africa, South Asia and the Middle East under greatest threat.”

Despite these facts, Africa still has many stable regions. According to the Global Peace Index, here are the seven most peaceful countries in Africa.

1. Mauritius

Global peace index: 1.54

Mauritius, an Indian Ocean island nation in Eastern Africa, is known as a luxury destination for many travelers, boasting gorgeous beaches, lagoons, reefs, rainforests, waterfalls, hiking trails, wildlife, and more. In addition to its beautiful outdoor attractions, Mauritius is also the most peaceful country in Africa. Specifically, the country ranked “very low” (meaning “most peaceful) in terms of organized internal conflict, political instability, terrorist activity, domestic and international conflict, and more. 

2. Botswana

Global peace index: 1.76

Botswana is yet another peaceful country in Africa. As one of the largest diamond producers in the world, the country’s diamond trade has contributed to its economic success. Additionally, its safari land and vast wilderness make it a popular tourist attraction.

Some sources of Botswana’s peacefulness ranked low in terms of political terror, internal organized conflict, weapon exports, and more. Additionally, the country, located in Southern Africa, had more positive relations with neighboring countries,

3. Sierra Leone

Global peace index: 1.79

Sierra Leone, located in West Africa, was once known for its violent civil war and political corruption. However, in a discussion about Sierra Leone’s election to a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Prof. David Francis stated, “Sierra Leone is no longer defined by its troubled past. Today we are considered a liberal, progressive, confident, and enterprising nation.”

The country is now the third most peaceful in Africa, ranking low regarding deaths from conflict, weapon exports, terrorist activity, and more. Additionally, Sierra Leone experiences relatively low instances of domestic and international conflict and decent safety and security.

4. Ghana

Global peace index: 1.80

While Ghana’s GPI has slightly increased over the past few years, the country remains one of the most peaceful in Africa. From its stable democratic system to its loving and welcoming community, Ghana, located in West Africa, ranked the fourth most peaceful country in Africa. It received low rankings in categories such as deaths from conflict, nuclear and heavy weapons, terrorist activity, and more. 

5. Senegal

Global peace index: 1.83

Senegal is considered one of the most stable countries in Africa, experiencing conflict-free political transitions and actively promoting peace. In fact, its relationships with neighboring countries in Africa have improved in recent years. Senegal, located in West Africa, has also ranked low in terms of internal political conflict, weapon imports, and terrorist activity. 

6. Madagascar

Global peace index: 1.86

Located in East Africa, Madagascar is an island country and is the fourth largest island in the world. While Madagascar is often known for violent crime and civil unrest, the country is actually quite peaceful in terms of weapon imports, military expenditure, nuclear and heavy weapons, and more. 

7. Namibia

Global peace index: 1.86

Namibia, located in southwest Africa, is considered one of the safest countries in Africa. Jumping from ninth to seventh place on the list of most peaceful African countries, Namibia received low scores for organized conflict, violent crimes, terrorist activity, displaced people, and political instability. 

Summary of the Most Peaceful Countries in Africa

Here is a summary of the most peaceful countries in Africa, including each region’s global ranking and GPI ranking.

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