A group of African economies is set to post some of the world’s strongest growth rates in 2026, led by Ethiopia and Guinea, as investment, reforms and resource exports drive momentum across the continent, according to projections from the International Monetary Fund.
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Ethiopia is expected to top the list with real GDP growth of about 9.2%, reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s most dynamic economies. The IMF has pointed to sustained public investment, expansion in services and gradual recovery from recent macroeconomic pressures as key drivers of growth.
Close behind, Guinea is projected to grow by 8.7%, supported largely by its booming mining sector. The country is one of the world’s largest producers of bauxite, a key raw material for aluminium, and rising global demand has continued to attract foreign investment, according to IMF assessments.
Uganda is forecast to expand by 7.5%, with growth underpinned by infrastructure development and the anticipated ramp-up of its oil sector. The IMF has highlighted that energy projects, alongside agriculture and services, are expected to play a central role in sustaining momentum.
Rwanda, long regarded as a reform-oriented economy, is projected to grow by 7.2%. The IMF credits its consistent policy framework, investment in technology and efforts to position itself as a regional services hub for its steady performance.
Benin and Niger are also expected to post strong growth of 7.0% and 6.7%, respectively. In both countries, infrastructure spending and regional trade integration have been key contributors, with the IMF noting improved fiscal management and investment flows.
Côte d’Ivoire, one of West Africa’s economic anchors, is projected to grow by 6.2%, driven by agriculture, construction and services. The IMF has repeatedly cited the country’s diversified economy and stable policy environment as factors supporting its resilience.
Further down the list, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Tanzania are both expected to grow by 5.9%. In the DRC, mining, particularly copper and cobalt, continues to dominate, while Tanzania’s expansion is supported by tourism, infrastructure and energy investments.
Mali rounds up the top 10 with a projected growth of 5.5%, reflecting a rebound in key sectors despite ongoing security challenges.
IMF notes that fast-growing economies across Africa are increasingly driven by a mix of natural resources, urbanisation and policy reforms, offering pockets of opportunity for investors despite lingering risks.
This article was originally published by Global South World and is republished here with permission. View the original article.
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