In this article, we look at the 5 most powerful countries in Africa in 2024. You can read about the vast reserves of natural resources and the race for power in this critical region of the world, by heading over to the 15 Most Powerful Countries in Africa in 2024.
5. Nigeria
Military Strength Rank: 4
Economic Strength Rank: 1
Political Soft Power Rank: 8
Cultural Influence Rank: 15
Average Rank: 7.0
We begin our list with Nigeria, which is the largest economy in Africa with a nominal GDP of $477 billion in 2022. According to PricewaterhouseCoopers, the country is poised to become the 14th largest economy worldwide by 2050. Nigeria has leveraged its economic strength to enhance the capabilities of its armed forces as well, and now boasts the fourth most powerful military in the continent which is proving to be effective in its fight against militant groups such as Boko Haram.
4. Algeria
Military Strength Rank: 3
Economic Strength Rank: 4
Political Soft Power Rank: 5
Cultural Influence Rank: 6
Average Rank: 4.5
Algeria is one the most powerful countries in Africa, with a population of over 44 million people. It has the third strongest military in Africa, and in 2022 spent $10 billion in military spending – which was the highest defense expenditure across the continent that year. The country has always focused on building a potent military force due to its long-going dispute with Morocco.
3. Morocco
Military Strength Rank: 2
Economic Strength Rank: 6
Political Soft Power Rank: 3
Cultural Influence Rank: 4
Average Rank: 3.8
Next up is Morocco, which has managed to edge out its rival Algeria at third spot. The country has a GDP of $138 billion as of 2022 according to the IMF. Its military is equipped with modern western weapons, which gives it an edge over Algeria which relies on Russia for much of its military procurement. Moreover, Rabat has established cordial relations with Israel lately which has helped in improving its soft power on the global stage.
2. South Africa
Military Strength Rank: 5
Economic Strength Rank: 3
Political Soft Power Rank: 2
Cultural Influence Rank: 2
Average Rank: 3.0
South Africa is a key economic hub and diplomatic player in the African continent. It is the country of Nelson Mandela, which gives it immense soft power. Moreover, its diverse and industrialized economic sector, and well-developed infrastructure, has earned it the status of being one of Africa’s economic powerhouses. It is also among the most stable countries in the continent in terms of law and order. Diplomatically, the country plays a leading role in the African Union, and is one of the five members of BRICS.
1. Egypt
Military Strength Rank: 1
Economic Strength Rank: 2
Political Soft Power Rank: 1
Cultural Influence Rank: 1
Average Rank: 1.25
Egypt is the most powerful country in Africa, claiming top spots in military strength, political soft power, and cultural influence. It is also the second largest economy in Africa, only next to Nigeria. Egypt is a key ally of the United States which has enabled it to raise a strong military and boost its political stature on the world stage. According to Brand Finance’s Global Soft Power Index 2023, Egypt ranked 38th in the world on soft power. Moreover, the country has a rich history and heritage, which provides it immense cultural influence in the world. Millions of tourists visit the country each year and get fascinated by the ancient pyramids.
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