Africa is steadily embracing digital transformation. While most countries on the continent face challenges in fostering an environment that supports globally competitive, cutting-edge technological innovation, a growing number are proving to be exceptions.

Thirteen African countries have secured spots in the global Top 100 for best startup ecosystems, a report published Wednesday by research firm StartupBlink revealed.

The "Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2025" leverages 33 indicators, categorized across "quantity," "quality," and "business environment," to assess global startup landscapes. These indicators include the number of startups, co-working spaces, and accelerators; total investment in startups, the presence of unicorns, and R&D centers established by major international tech companies; and internet connection speed, internet cost, and R&D expenditure.

South Africa (52nd globally) maintained its lead as the continent's top startup ecosystem. Kenya (58th globally) ascended five places from its 2024 ranking to claim the second spot in Africa.

The rest of the African Top 10 includes Egypt (65th globally), Nigeria (66th), Cape Verde (75th), Ghana (81st), Tunisia (82nd), Namibia (85th), and Morocco (88th). Senegal (92nd globally) rounded out the top ten, followed by Uganda (94th), Rwanda (96th), and Somalia (100th).

Overall, ten African countries improved their rankings from the previous edition, while two (Senegal and Nigeria) experienced a drop. South Africa was the sole country to retain its position. Tunisia saw the largest jump, climbing eight places, followed by Ghana (+7), Kenya (+5), and Morocco (+4).

In its city-level ranking of 1,000 startup ecosystems worldwide, StartupBlink highlighted only Lagos (76th globally) and Cairo (90th globally) within the Top 100. Both cities were recognized for their vibrant ecosystems, which boast multiple unicorns, a high concentration of successful startups, and prominent incubators and accelerators.

Walid Kéfi