Top 10 safest countries in Africa, according to latest global peace ranking

While global peace continues to decline, Africa presents a more nuanced picture. Mauritius ranked 18th globally, making it not only Africa’s safest country but also one of the safest nations in the world.

• Business Insider Africa presents the top 10 safest countries in Africa, according to the latest global peace ranking.
• The list is courtesy of the 2026 Global Peace Index (GPI), Institute for Economics & Peace, and Conflict.
• Mauritius ranked 18th globally, making it not only Africa’s safest country but also one of the safest nations in the world.

While global peace continues to decline, Africa presents a more nuanced picture. The 2026 Global Peace Index (GPI), Institute for Economics & Peace, and Conflict found that the world became less peaceful for the 15th time in the last 18 years, with conflicts in Sudan and other regions contributing to a broader deterioration in global stability.

Yet several African nations continue to stand out for their relative safety, political stability, and low levels of violence. The GPI, which assesses 163 countries using 23 indicators across societal safety and security, conflict, and militarisation, offers a comprehensive measure of peacefulness. Here are the 10 safest countries in Africa according to the latest rankings:

1. Mauritius (Score: 1.586)

Mauritius ranked 18th globally, making it not only Africa’s safest country but also one of the safest nations in the world. The Indian Ocean island has built a reputation for political stability, strong democratic institutions, low levels of violent crime, and a diversified economy. The country's peaceful political transitions have consistently helped it outperform most African nations in global peace and safety rankings.

2. Equatorial Guinea (Score: 1.720)

Equatorial Guinea ranked 38th globally, placing second in Africa for safety. Despite its relatively small population and a political system often criticised internationally, the country benefits from comparatively low levels of armed conflict and organised violence. While social and economic challenges remain, the absence of major internal conflicts has contributed to its strong standing in global peace rankings.

3. Botswana (Score: 1.823)

Botswana ranked 50th globally and remains one of Africa’s most stable democracies. Since gaining independence in 1966, the country has maintained a strong record of peaceful governance and political continuity. Its institutions are widely regarded as among the continent’s most effective, while corruption levels remain relatively low. The country’s diamond wealth has supported economic development and public services, helping create a secure environment for residents and businesses.

4. The Gambia (Score: 1.837)

The Gambia ranked 56th globally, reflecting significant improvements in stability since its democratic transition in 2017. Although it remains one of Africa’s smallest countries by land area, it has managed to avoid major internal conflicts that affect many developing nations.

5. Madagascar (Score: 1.849)

Madagascar ranked 59th globally, securing its place among Africa’s safest countries. The island nation benefits from geographic isolation, which has shielded it from many regional security challenges affecting mainland Africa. While it continues to face economic difficulties and occasional political tensions, large-scale conflict remains rare.

6. Namibia (Score: 1.872)

Namibia ranked 63rd globally, supported by decades of political stability and strong democratic governance. Since its independence in 1990, the country has developed a reputation as one of Southern Africa’s most peaceful nations. Its low population density, effective institutions, and relatively stable economy have contributed to a secure environment.

7. Morocco (Score: 1.887)

Morocco ranked 65th globally, making it one of North Africa’s safest countries. The kingdom has invested heavily in security infrastructure, economic modernisation, and political stability over the past two decades. While the country faces some regional geopolitical challenges, it has largely maintained domestic stability and avoided the large-scale conflicts seen elsewhere in the region.

8. Sierra Leone (Score: 1.937)

Sierra Leone ranked 74th globally, a remarkable achievement considering its history of civil war in the 1990s and early 2000s. Over the past two decades, the country has made significant progress in rebuilding institutions, strengthening democratic processes, and maintaining internal peace.

9. Senegal (Score: 1.939)

Senegal ranked 75th globally and continues to be viewed as one of West Africa’s most stable democracies. The country has a long history of peaceful political transitions and relatively strong institutions compared to many regional peers. Dakar has emerged as a major diplomatic, economic, and cultural hub in West Africa, attracting investment and international organisations.

10. Ghana (Score: 1.943)

Ghana ranked 76th globally, rounding out Africa’s top 10 safest countries. Widely regarded as one of the continent’s most stable democracies, Ghana has built a reputation for peaceful elections, strong civic participation, and a relatively open political environment. The country serves as a regional centre for business, finance, and diplomacy in West Africa.