Top 10 African countries with the highest life expectancy

Life expectancy in Africa has seen both progress and challenges over the years. While the continent’s average life expectancy has gradually increased, it remains lower than the global average, due to a variety of factors, including economic disparities, healthcare access, and the impact of diseases.

As of 2023, the average life expectancy in Africa stands at stood at nearly 63 years, which is a significant improvement from the early 2000s.

This increase can be attributed to improvements in healthcare infrastructure, better access to vaccines, and advancements in the fight against diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis.

As of 2023, Algeria had the highest life expectancy at birth in Africa. A newborn infant was expected to live over 77 years in the country. Cabo Verde, Tunisia, and Mauritius followed, with a life expectancy between 77 and 75 years.

These nations have benefited from better healthcare systems, stable economies, and access to essential services, contributing to their higher life expectancy rates.

However, many African nations still face considerable challenges. Sub-Saharan Africa, in particular, grapples with high mortality rates from preventable diseases, malnutrition, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. For instance, Chad has recorded the lowest average life expectancy in Africa, at just under 54 years.

One of the primary obstacles to longer life expectancy in Africa is the high child mortality rate, which contributes to a lower average life expectancy. Malnutrition, lack of clean water, and inadequate medical care in many rural areas exacerbate these issues. Additionally, Africa’s rapid urbanization often leads to overburdened healthcare systems that are ill-equipped to handle the growing population’s needs.