South Africa, Egypt, Algeria, Nigeria, and Ethiopia collectively account for nearly 50% of Africa’s total GDP, highlighting economic disparities across the continent
Data from International Monetary Fund revealed that Africa’s five largest economies—South Africa, Egypt, Algeria, Nigeria, and Ethiopia—contribute a combined GDP of $1.4 trillion, representing almost half of the continent’s total economic output. The remaining 48 African nations collectively generate an equal amount, underscoring the significant economic divide.
South Africa leads the continent with a GDP of $373.23 billion, followed by Egypt at $347.59 billion. Algeria, Nigeria, and Ethiopia round out the top five with GDPs of $266.78 billion, $252.74 billion, and $205.13 billion, respectively.
The list of Africa’s top twelve economies also includes Morocco, Kenya, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Tanzania, Ghana, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, further demonstrating the economic concentration in a few key nations.
As Africa moves into 2025, calls for more inclusive economic growth and investment across the continent are growing, aiming to bridge the gap between the leading economies and the rest of the region.
Source: International Monetary Fund
Note: Figures are rounded. Data unavailable for Eritrea and Western Sahara.
