Top 10 African countries where the government makes more than it spends in 2026

African countries are steadily strengthening their fiscal conditions, which might give considerable economic gains at a time when the global economy is becoming more unpredictable.

• African countries are improving their fiscal conditions, approaching balanced primary deficits by 2026-2028.
• The regional primary deficit in Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to fall from 3.2% of GDP in 2020 to 0.7% in 2025.
• Balanced government finances can boost stability, reduce reliance on borrowing, and increase market confidence.
• Improved fiscal balances free up resources for vital sectors like infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

According to the World Bank's Making Industrial Policy Work in Africa study, primary fiscal deficits in Sub-Saharan Africa are expected to approach balance between 2026 and 2028, following continuous improvements since 2021.

The regional primary deficit is estimated to fall from 3.2% of GDP in 2020 to 0.7% in 2025, with a balanced fiscal account projected in 2026.

A solid government balance, where revenues roughly equal or surpass expenditures, can provide various benefits to African economies.

One of the most significant is increased budgetary stability.

Governments with balanced budgets rely less on borrowing to fund spending, lowering the risk of debt buildup and boosting market confidence.

This is especially essential as many African countries continue to face hefty debt payment expenses.

According to the report by the World Bank, interest payments on public debt have surpassed spending on health and education in four out of five African countries.

Improved fiscal balances allow governments to devote more resources to infrastructure, healthcare, education, and industrial growth rather than debt repayment.

Stronger government balances can also help nations cope better with external shocks.

With geopolitical tensions in the Middle East threatening global energy markets and shipping routes, countries with stronger public finances are better positioned to adapt to unexpected rises in fuel, food, and import costs.

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Resource-rich African countries may be in a particularly advantageous position in 2026.

Higher commodity prices, such as precious metals and beverage exports, are likely to continue to increase government income, hence improving fiscal and external balances.

While fiscal risks persist and total budget deficits remain high, the region's path toward balanced primary accounts represents a significant step toward economic resilience.

For many African nations, improved government balances may offer the financial foundation required to maintain growth, attract investment, and navigate an increasingly unstable global climate.

With that said, here are the 10 African countries with the highest government balance in 2026, according to the World Bank.