Labour productivity, as defined by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), measures the total volume of output—expressed in Gross Domestic Product (GDP)—produced per unit of labour in productive countries in Africa.
This is typically assessed by the number of employed persons or total hours worked within a given period. Essentially, it reflects how efficiently labour contributes to economic output.
Africa, with its youthful and expanding workforce, has immense economic potential. However, many nations struggle with low productivity.
Despite these challenges, some countries out-perform others, with Libya leading the continent in labour productivity at $29.8 GDP per hour worked, followed closely by Algeria and Egypt, per data from Ilostat.
Top 10 African Countries Most Productive 1. Libya ($29.8 per hour worked) Libya’s economy is heavily reliant on its vast oil reserves, which drive its high productivity. However, political instability and conflict have stifled long-term economic growth and diversification.
2. Algeria ($28.2 per hour worked) Algeria’s productivity is largely fueled by its hydrocarbon sector, particularly oil and natural gas. The government has been making efforts to diversify its economy, but state control and bureaucracy remain challenges.
3. Egypt ($27.1 per hour worked) Egypt benefits from a diversified economy, with strong contributions from tourism, Suez Canal revenues, and a growing industrial sector. However, high population growth and unemployment pose ongoing economic hurdles.
4. Djibouti ($26.6 per hour worked) Djibouti’s strategic location along key global trade routes boosts its economy. The country relies on port services, logistics, and foreign investments, particularly from China, to drive productivity.
5. Eswatini ($25.0 per hour worked) The small southern African nation of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) maintains relatively high productivity due to its strong manufacturing sector, particularly in textiles and sugar production.
6. Botswana ($23.8 per hour worked) Botswana has leveraged its diamond mining industry to achieve stable economic growth. Good governance and prudent financial management have contributed to its strong labour productivity.
7. South Africa ($21.6 per hour worked) As Africa’s most industrialized nation, South Africa has a diverse economy spanning mining, finance, and manufacturing. However, challenges such as energy shortages and high unemployment limit productivity gains.
8. Tunisia ($19.2 per hour worked) Tunisia’s economy benefits from a well-developed industrial and service sector, including tourism. However, political instability and slow economic reforms have affected long-term growth.
9. Equatorial Guinea ($18.9 per hour worked) With one of the highest GDPs per capita in Africa, Equatorial Guinea’s productivity is driven by oil exports. However, economic inequality remains a major issue due to reliance on a narrow economic base.
10. Namibia ($15.6 per hour worked) Namibia’s economy is supported by mining (diamonds, uranium), agriculture, and a growing tourism sector. Despite a relatively small workforce, the country has managed steady productivity levels.
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Top 10 Most Productive Countries In Africa In 2025