Kenya has remained stagnant in the 2025 Chandler Good Government Index (CGGI), retaining its position at 94th globally for a second consecutive year.
The index, which assesses government capabilities and effectiveness across 120 countries, shows Kenya’s stalled progress following a sharp fall from 85th in 2023 to 94th in 2024.
In Africa, Mauritius retained its lead at 51st globally, followed by Rwanda at 59th, which was also recognized as the world’s best-performing low-income country.
Botswana (61st), Morocco (75th) and South Africa (77th) rounded out the continent’s top five performers.
Tanzania, ranked 78th, recorded the most improvement on the continent since the index’s launch in 2021, climbing four spots from 82nd.
“Good government is built over decades, but every step forward matters. The achievements we see in these African countries today – from digitalisation to reforms in public institutions – are building blocks for long-term transformation,” said Dinesh Naidu, Director at the Chandler Institute of Governance Naidu.
Global Performance
Singapore led the rankings, followed by Denmark and Norway.
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The United Arab Emirates entered the top 10 for the first time, while the United States slipped to 23rd, dragged down by fiscal inefficiencies and weak equity measures.
The bottom five countries were Sierra Leone (119th), Venezuela (120th), Nigeria (116th), Angola (117th), and Zimbabwe (120th), all hampered by weak institutions and poor financial stewardship.
According to Dinesh Naidu, Director of Knowledge at the Chandler Institute of Governance, Africa continues to struggle with fiscal pressures and competitiveness, but shows signs of improvement.
“Even in a challenging global environment, high-performance African countries are making governance advances that can inspire peers across the continent,” Naidu said during the index’s regional launch.
Sub-Saharan Africa Performance
With nearly 70% of the population in Sub-Saharan Africa under the age of 30, governments that focus on creating jobs, expanding education, and driving inclusive growth have a unique opportunity to unlock a transformative demographic advantage.
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“What is encouraging is the progress in areas such as strong institutions and digital governance,” notes Naidu.
“Across Africa, we are seeing examples of governments innovating to improve service delivery and strengthen accountability. These reforms show that even in a tough global environment, progress is possible.”
As expectations rise for more effective services and governance, the CGGI serves as a valuable benchmark across seven key dimensions: Leadership and Foresight, Sound Laws and Policies, Institutional Strength, Fiscal Responsibility, Competitive Economy, Global Standing, and Empowering Citizens. Designed with practitioners in mind, the Index is a practical resource to help governments spot areas for growth and learn from successful peers.
“The Chandler Institute of Governance is proud to stand with African governments, offering insights and supporting institutional development to build a stronger, more inclusive future,” he added.
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