Africa is one of the richest and poorest continents in the world. This statement may sound contradictory but it is just a fact in the sense that African cities offer different experiences; While some deliver amazingly good experiences, others leave a very bad memory. It is advisable that you do some research to find out which city best suits your needs and with that in mind, in this article we are going to provide some helpful information to help you know the most livable cities in the continent to help you in your choice to help whether you want to spend some time in Africa or settle down in Africa entirely.
10. Tunis, Tunisia
This is one of the fastest growing economies in Africa. Tunis is the capital of Tunisia and is located in the northernmost part of the continent. The capital is located in one of the hottest yet most conducive areas in the world. It’s hard to fathom that Tunis would be on this list after what plagued the city a few years ago. The Arab Spring riots nearly robbed this city of its place in development. It has a state of earth architecture that made the city one of the richest cities in the Arab and Muslim world. Despite this, the cost of living in the city is affordable. This makes it one of the most livable cities for many in Africa.
9. Libreville, Gabon
It may come as a surprise to many that Libreville is among the most livable cities in Africa. Luckily it is. As the largest city in Gabon, it is definitely home to many people. About half a million people live in Libreville. Interestingly, it is one of the African cities with the highest literacy rate at over 90%! Among the things to do in the city are the parks, beautiful monuments and nature reserves. The national language and the common language of the city is French.
8. Akwa Ibom, Nigeria
Don’t be surprised to learn that Akwa Ibom has the best economy on the continent! Unknown to many, Akwa Ibom has peaceful and warm-hearted citizens. In addition, the city’s road network is excellent and it has been voted one of the most beautiful cities in Nigeria. Recently, the city has gotten a boost from the government to build its roads, which the local authorities are taking seriously. It is affordable to live in the city, unlike Lagos or Abuja, the capital of Nigeria. Unfortunately, between Boko Haram and the Niger Delta militants, this beautiful city is being destabilized in the same way as other cities in Nigeria.
7. Windhoek, Namibia
Namibia was colonized by the Germans. You’re likely to see some German paintings and distinctive architecture around the city. You will never reach Namibia, and especially the city of Windhoek, without coming across Windhoek Lager, the country’s renowned brewery, located in this city. The finely crafted restaurants will make you want to stay and even live in Windhoek. Around 330,000 people enjoy the city’s clean environment.
6. Accra, Ghana
Accra has a rich history beginning with the country’s late founding father, Kwame Nkrumah. It would interest you to know that Accra accounts for about 20% of the total population of Ghana. The city enjoys close proximity to Nigeria and has one of the best tourist attractions in West Africa. Its bars, malls, restaurants, bars and clubhouses as they are called, serve as a rest stop for all visitors coming to Ghana or other neighboring African countries such as Nigeria. It is only 45 minutes flight from Abuja. One thing that strikes you when you hear about Accra: hospitality among the hosts.
5. Gaborone, Botswana
It would be an understatement to say that Gaborone is a city of beauty. The city was acknowledged with beauty beyond awe. One million people (250,000) live in Gaborone. The country is known for its large diamond deposits. In addition, it is also associated with a lot of meat as the country is one of the largest exporters of beef. Visitors who come here are treated with heat and entertained with various foods.
4. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Dar as many call it is one of the top 10 most livable cities in Africa that has had its fair share of democratic and political space. It is till now the largest city in Tanzania. There has been a recent increase in infrastructure. In general, Tanzanians are extremely polite people. This saying “extremely polite” should make you see this for yourself.
3. Nairobi, Kenya
So far, this is the fastest growing city in East Africa. Nairobi from the “place of cool water” is a quiet place. Even though it’s on the equator, you’re likely to experience weather conditions that will give you the ultimate feeling of your life. Nairobi National Park is only a 10 minute drive from the CBD. The people of Nairobi give you a warm welcome.
2. Johannesburg, South Africa
The many companies that are located in this city gives it an urban look. The people of Jo’berg, as it is affectionately known, are indeed warm and very friendly! “The city is green like a forest,” said one visitor. The country has put the emphasis on the city’s infrastructure. Because of the forest, Johannesburg is sometimes referred to as “the largest man-made forest in the world”. In general, the cost of living there is quite affordable for average earners. As South Africa is a rainbow nation, you can imagine why people willingly flock to Johannesburg.
1. Cape Town, South Africa
Are you surprised that South Africa is represented by two cities? It’s absolutely possible! According to IIAG, Cape Town tops the list of the 10 most livable cities in Africa because, among other things, it is a one-stop destination. Also, it is known as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Despite the modern sophistication, the city is peaceful day and night. The number of tourists that flock to Cape Town throughout the year proves this fact.