Freetown, Sierra Leone – World Economics Governance Index has placed Sierra Leone among the top ten African countries with the best governance in 2026, ranking the country 9th on the continent.
The latest report highlights progress across Africa in areas such as transparency, institutional strength, and policy effectiveness, while also pointing to ongoing challenges in several countries, including Sierra Leone.
According to the index, Sierra Leone scored 48.0 and received a C grade, reflecting steady but gradual improvements in governance. The country continues to rebuild its institutions following years of civil conflict and public health crises, with reforms focusing on strengthening the judiciary, enhancing anti-corruption measures, and expanding decentralised governance.
Despite these efforts, the report notes that significant work remains, particularly in improving accountability systems, service delivery, and public sector efficiency.
Across the continent, island nation Cabo Verde topped the rankings with an A grade and a score of 74.0, praised for its political stability, strong institutions, and effective public sector reforms. Mauritius and Namibia followed in second and third place respectively, both earning B grades for maintaining stable governance systems and investor-friendly environments.
In West Africa, Ghana ranked 6th, recognised for its democratic stability and continued governance reforms, while Senegal placed 7th, reflecting gradual institutional improvements over the years.
The report underscores that strong governance remains a key driver of economic growth, investor confidence, and social stability. For Sierra Leone, analysts say the ranking presents both encouragement and a clear signal that sustained reforms will be necessary to climb higher in future assessments.
As African countries continue to strengthen their institutions, the index concludes that long-term commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective leadership will be critical in shaping the continent’s development trajectory.
