Top 10 Most Developed Cities in Africa (2023)

Africa has always been regarded as a continent with black color. It is widely regarded as being the continent that has the richest mineral resources. This is the reason why the most exporting countries are in Africa. On the other hand, Africa harbors very poor and undeveloped areas which are largely ignored by poverty-stricken residents struggling to feed themselves and survive.

Africa isn’t necessarily considered a developed continent. However, with the recent advancements that have taken place in African countries, there are many advanced cities across Africa in which technology is an integral part of people’s everyday lives. African cities are now catching up on the list of most rapidly developing cities around the globe. While there is a lot of work still needed in certain areas of Africa, the continent is home to some of the best-developed cities around the globe. Abidjan, the capital city of Ivory Coast is the most developed city in Africa. 

Top 10 most developed cities in Africa

Africa is a continent that has been that was captured by poor lighting and a story of poverty that seems to draw the attention of the entire world. With its resourceful population, and a wealth of natural resources economic value, and investment, the developmental impact is felt in major cities.

Despite the torrent of violence, epileptic economy, and sluggish leadership, the continent can boast cities with developed infrastructures.

1. Abidjan, Ivory Coast

Abidjan is the capital city of Ivory Coast. Furthermore, it is the main point of interest for investment in trade within the country. Despite the civil wars that have been fought throughout the country, it is the most developed city in Africa, with stunning landscapes and tourist destinations.

It is the biggest exporter and producer of cocoa. It’s also fourth among the world’s top exporters of general goods following South Africa, Nigeria, and Angola. Abidjan through time has also remained at the top of the list of most beautiful and well-developed cities in Africa due to its infrastructure.

2. Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

Dar Es Salaam is not only a city located in Tanzania but it is also one which truly represents the significance of its name, Abode of Peace – because it is regarded as the most tranquil town in Africa. In addition to being peaceful, thriving, and well-developed, it also happens to be the former capital city of Tanzania before being relocated to Dodoma in 1996.

Dar Es Salaam is also the biggest city in Tanzania with shoppers in the Kariakoo market, which is among the biggest and most crowded markets in East Africa. If you are a first-timer seeking places to visit or activities to enjoy around the city the Bongoyo Island, Mbudya Island, National Museum of Tanzania, Askari Monument, and Coco Beach are great places to begin.

3. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

The impressive infrastructure and buildings in Addis Ababa complement the city due to its status as the capital and the largest city of Ethiopia. It is a place where you can meet amazing people, with numerous activities to keep you engaged, such as The National Museum of Ethiopia, Mount Entoto, Lion Park, and many more.

Addis Ababa is renowned as one of the most developed cities in Africa and the home of the African Union. It is also called the capital of politics in Africa because of its diplomatic, historical and political importance to the continent.

4. Lagos, Nigeria

Lagos was considered to be the capital city of Nigeria up to December 12th, 1991 at which point Abuja was declared as the brand newly created Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. Lagos is regarded as the largest city in Africa and Nigeria as well as the economic capital in West Africa.

Lagos has numerous firms and is one of the most populated cities in the world. It is divided into Mainland and Island and is home to some of the best and busiest locations such as Lekki, Victoria Island, Broad Street, Ojuelegba, and several others. The city is often described as the city that never sleeps due to the popularity of its many Nightlife attractions.

5. Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi is among the well-known cities in Africa financially as well as politically. It’s home to thousands of local enterprises. Similarly, the city is one of the top destinations for tourists from all over the world. Nairobi hosts international organizations such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

The Kenyan city is home to the principal central headquarters of the UN in Africa and the Middle East. Nairobi can be described as a city that offers a blend of culture and business. Nairobi is one of the most developed cities in Africa.

6. Tunis, Tunisia

Tunis with more than 2.6 million residents is perhaps one of the largest and most organized cities in Northern Africa. The prosperity and growth of the Tunisian economy over the last few years are evident in the rapid growth of the city’s outer areas.

Reports indicate that the social problems of the country are triggered by rapid modernization in Tunisia. Modernization led to the growth of Tunis into one of the best modern cities in Africa and also an attractive tourist destination, which has made the city among the top frequented cities in North Africa.

7. Gaborone, Botswana

Gaborone is an amazing, mind-blowing, and stunning region of Southern Africa with a dynamic infrastructure, a stable political system, as well as an incredibly rich culture. It is also one of the biggest diamond-producing countries around the globe. The city is renowned as one of the most developed cities in Africa.

A single trip to Gaborone and you’re addicted for the rest of your eternity. If you are thinking of going, ensure you’re prepared for a permanent move to the city, because you won’t ever be able to leave without a struggle. Also, on the positive side, there aren’t diamonds in the dirt.

8. Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg isn’t one of the biggest cities in South Africa, and it has a smaller population than Cape Town with a population of around a million residents. Johannesburg is one of the most desirable and popular destinations in South Africa.

Johannesburg is a flourishing city that has beautiful sights like The City Deep which is the largest dry port in the world, and Johannesburg’s Apartheid Museum.

9. Abuja, Nigeria

Abuja is among the cities that are most developed within Western Africa. The city is also the capital city of Nigeria which is, in fact, the largest country of blacks in Africa. In addition to its beauty and growth, Abuja is among the most prosperous cities in Africa. This selection is not based on GDP, but rather on the amount generated in terms of revenue, making it one of the most developed cities in Africa.

10. Cape Town, South Africa 

Cape Town has been recognized as one of the top destinations to visit anywhere in the world. The city has a rich European heritage and was built by colonial rulers. Cape Town’s infrastructure is well-developed and unrivaled in Africa and it ranks among the best anywhere in the world. Cape Town is undoubtedly one of the most developed cities in Africa.

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Conclusion

Undoubtedly, there are several beautiful and well-developed cities across Africa. It is essential to know that a city must be able to pass a series of tests before it can be categorized as the most beautiful or most developed therefore this list has been curated and up-to-date with the most relevant information.