In this article, we will take a look at the 15 best African countries to live in as a woman in 2024.
A continent with enormous wealth in mineral resources, encompassing the world’s largest reserves of fossil fuels, precious metals, jewels, ores, and many treasured commodities. Pride that upholds its established belief systems and a variety of cultural affinities. Not to mention its fauna, which occupies around one-fifth of the planet’s land area; the world’s second-largest continent after Asia is Africa.
African state-nations had more than 800 native languages, indicating their rich and diversified cultural heritage before European imperial powers intervened and took an interest in the continent. African Countries have a distinct and fascinating culture, especially when it comes to the way they live, fully embracing and attaching great importance to their customs and beliefs.
A society where women were perceived to be as a person whose role was to fulfill their obligations to bear children, and eventually become mothers who would provide the needs of the family, do household chores, cook food, give parental care, budget, and be a support system to all members of the family, is perceived to be a general role of women. These days, women are more than just the ones who provide for their families by staying at home. It has been redefined to include women who can make significant contributions to the advancement of society, the workforce, politics, public health, and the general welfare.
African Countries cherish women and recognize their important social and cultural contributions. As they claim in history; African women cared for their communities and held chieftaincies in their own right. In addition, they have responsibilities for maintaining their home, helping their husbands, rearing their kids, and feeding and caring for the family. Moreover, it is fascinating to see that African women are doing activities that can contribute betterment of their communities. They are actively participating in farming, where they are involved in agriculture, frequently working alongside their male partners to cultivate crops. Also, One fact is that Women in Africa are viewed as entrepreneurs, which is in contrast to the perception of women in Western and Eastern countries, that women, particularly those in Europe and Asia are only allowed to do house activities and be moral support to their family, especially their husband and children. Meanwhile, African women sold goods in the neighborhood in marketplaces as part of their trade and commerce activities. This depicts that African women have a special role to play within their communities.
Due to Africa’s vast wealth and diverse and numerous natural resources, Africa has not been spared from colonialism. European imperial powers such as Great Britain, France, Portugal, and Spain invaded various African states, annexed land, and destroyed colonies by dividing and conquering in order to establish their own selfish political competition and economic conditions. Therefore, the role of women in African countries underwent major changes and had a great impact on the views of the society, especially with the introduction of Western ideology, which expanded its influence and led to the loss of women’s freedom, power, and experience slavery in the worst parts of African history. Thus women after colonization are experiencing stereotypes and still remain in the contemporary period.
The world continues to be plastic today. The external force contributing to processes of modernization, independence, integration, and decolonization has gradually shaped and influenced the role of women in society. The interaction of the aforementioned forces generally resulted in both gains and losses for women. But today, African women are being redefined and gradually regaining their independence. We are now witnessing the enormous and important contributions of African women in a variety of fields, including politics, global markets, public health, education, and the workforce.
Despite the progress and changes that have been made, women in African cultures still face struggles and challenges. Some of them had limited access to education and health care, faced discrimination, and experienced stereotypes. They have no voice to assert their rights and are more likely than men to live in poverty. However, considering these rooted historical challenges, there is still a need to address that one must encompass work, effort, and commitment to promote gender equality and recognize women’s contributions and achievements in society. In this way, we can build a more inclusive and equal culture for women. Therefore, it asserts that there are African Countries where women can live to their fullest and maximize their potential without being stereotyped.
It is a well-established reality that many African countries adhere to a patriarchal societal structure and culture, where men traditionally hold power over women. This dominance is evident in various aspects, such as the practice of adopting the family name of the man after marriage, the prevalent gender pay gap, and the preferential treatment of men in governance appointments. These patterns are deeply rooted in African cultural traditions, social norms, and belief systems, which have also been influenced by Western ideologies.
Despite ongoing efforts, challenges persist, including gender inequality, workplace discrimination, limited privileges and benefits for women, laws favoring men, and unequal rights in property ownership, marriage, divorce, and inheritance. The majority of the population perceives women in African countries as facing stereotypes, inequality, and discrimination across various fields. While progress is being made, many African nations are still in the process of transitioning towards a more just and equal society that recognizes the rights and aspirations of both men and women.
This article aims to spotlight the top 15 best African countries to live in as a woman in 2024, without encountering undue restrictions, allowing them the freedom to define womanhood on their own terms.
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See also: 15 African Countries With the Most Beautiful Women
Our Methodology
In preparing our list of the 15 best African countries to live in as a woman in 2024, we extensively researched and validated all the information from multiple references. The African countries listed were based on professionals and experts’ studies adhering to the public’s opinion. Furthermore, the countries that were carefully included were based on the quality of life according to the governance adhering to women/humanitarian equality laws, benefits and privileges, economic situation, percentage of women in the workforce, traditions and customs beliefs of mentioned African Countries and employment opportunities which was retrieved from surveys conducted. You can also take a look at the 15 Best African Countries for Female Sex Tourism to learn more about the industry, or the 25 Most Educated Countries in Africa to have an idea about the African countries with the best education system.
But before anything else, here are the 15 best African countries to live in as a woman in 2024.
15 Best African Countries to Live in as a Woman in 2024
15. Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe, located in southern Africa, is known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. However, the country has grappled with significant challenges, particularly a high prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence, attributed to harmful traditional practices, religious beliefs, and an ingrained patriarchy that contributes to the subjugation of women. Over time, Zimbabwe has taken measures to address these issues, including the development of a constitution that upholds women’s rights. In the latest Gender Gap Index Report from the World Economic Forum (WEF), Zimbabwe secured the 47th position globally and ranked 6th among all African countries. This indicates progress toward gender equality, raising hopes for improved access to education and opportunities in the workforce. Consequently, Zimbabwe is acknowledged as one of the best African countries to live in as a woman in 2024.
14. Senegal
In the African region, where patriarchal norms traditionally confine women to domestic roles with limited rights and influence, Senegal is challenging these conventions. As of 2024, Senegal is leading the way in fostering gender equality, making it the top African country for women to live in. Senegal stands out for dismantling stereotypes and steadily granting women increased freedom, notably in terms of enhanced access to education and healthcare.
13. Burundi
In various countries, women are traditionally assigned roles such as nurturing children, managing household responsibilities, fostering family harmony, and supporting their husbands. In Burundi, these cultural norms and traditions have a significant impact on the status of women, posing challenges to their progress. However, the country is currently making efforts towards achieving gender equality. Recent data measuring the gender gap index reveals that Burundi stands out as the best performer in economic participation. This accomplishment is attributed to a notable increase in the number of women holding senior positions in political spheres. Consequently, Burundi secures the 13th position among the best African countries to live in as a woman in 2024.
12. Zambia
Similar to other African nations on the list, Zambia, while deeply rooted in its beliefs, customs, and traditions, has witnessed notable improvements in the status of women in recent years. In 2024, Zambia stands among the best African countries for women to live in, securing the 45th rank in the Gender Gap Index Report by the World Economic Forum (WEF) and the 5th rank among all African countries. This progress indicates Zambia’s ongoing efforts to enhance gender equality in crucial areas such as economic participation, employment opportunities, politics, health, and education. It is evident that women can lead lives here with the freedom to pursue their desires and define their roles as they see fit.
11. Gabon
Situated in the heart of Africa, Gabon boasts a rich cultural heritage deeply intertwined with African beliefs and traditions. Securing the 11th position among the best African countries to live in as a woman in 2024, Gabon ensures equal rights, particularly in terms of house ownership and belongings acquired during marriage. Central Africa’s Gabon has implemented laws to champion gender equality and provide legal protection for women against domestic violence. Here, women can lead fulfilling lives with a fervor to advance the rights of their gender.
10. Ghana
Addressing biases and stereotypes, Ghanaian women in politics have demonstrated a strong sense of purpose and objectives. They have taken proactive steps to inspire and encourage younger women to lead, emphasizing that gender should not limit their potential as they are equally human, just like men. Ghana stands out as the ideal African country for women to live freely, allowing them to exercise their rights without the constraints of traditional arranged marriages or being confined to family duties as wives and mothers. Here, women have the opportunity to play dual roles and define what being a woman truly means to them.
9. Angola
Securing the 9th spot in our list of the best African countries to live in as a woman in 2024 is Angola. Recent data from the Women, Business, and the Law 2023 index reveals that Angola achieved the highest score, ensuring women’s freedom in various aspects. This includes movement, entering the workforce, exploring diverse areas like art, dance, and theater, influencing political decisions, and enjoying rights in marriage, divorce, property, inheritance, and entrepreneurial activities. This indicates that women in Angola can effectively balance their roles as women and mothers within their families, showcasing their ability to fulfill dual responsibilities.
8. Morocco
In a world marked by modernization and globalization, where people connect with individuals of various nationalities and ethnicities, Morocco stands out as a country where women can thrive. Despite the traditional practice of polygamous marriage in Moroccan culture, recent laws ensure equal rights for both men and women. Women, like men, have the freedom to choose their life partners, emphasizing equal rights for both genders. This inclusion makes Morocco one of the best African countries to live in as a woman in 2024.
7. Uganda
In Uganda, women enjoy rights that surpass those in Western countries. The country acknowledges women’s roles in religion and community leadership. Moreover, Ugandan women can own land, participate in important political decisions, and run their own businesses for profit. Living here, women have equal rights as men, allowing them to fulfill traditional roles like supporting their families, managing household tasks, guiding their children, and choosing the kind of woman they want to be. This makes Uganda one of the best African countries to live in as a woman in 2024.
6. Madagascar
In Madagascar, a law addresses gender discrimination, yet some women still face challenges such as domestic violence, verbal and mental abuse, and workplace exploitation, leading to limited benefits and privileges. Despite these obstacles, there have been positive developments in recent years. Women now possess the legal and equal right to own a business and land without requiring their husband’s permission. This marks a significant step, allowing women in Madagascar to lead independent lives while fulfilling traditional roles, making it one of the best African countries to live in as a woman in 2024.
5. Namibia
Remaining rooted in and embracing strong traditional beliefs and customs of African culture, Namibia stands out in our list of the 15 best African countries to live in as a woman in 2024. This inclusion is based on recent achievements in addressing the “Gender Gap Index 2023 in Sub-Saharan Africa.” Namibia has earned the top rank, excelling in economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health, survival, and political empowerment. This underscores the nation’s commitment to total equality for both men and women.
4. Mozambique
Mozambique secured the 4th position on the list of the best African countries to live in as a woman in 2024. Within this African nation, residents strongly adhere to their beliefs regarding gender roles, often facing challenges in participating in the economy and expressing political opinions, even as the world undergoes modernization and globalization. With limited exposure to ideologies promoting justice, fairness, and gender inclusivity, a recent shift has been observed. In this evolving landscape, women are now highly valued and play a significant role in Mozambique. They actively participate in the government, advocating for their rights alongside their fellow women. This makes Mozambique one of the best African countries for women to live in during 2024 due to its commitment to equality and its stance against discrimination.
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