5 Most Powerful Countries in Africa in 2024

2. South Africa

Military Strength Rank: 5

Economic Strength Rank: 3

Political Soft Power Rank: 2

Cultural Influence Rank: 2

Average Rank: 3.0

South Africa is a key economic hub and diplomatic player in the African continent. It is the country of Nelson Mandela, which gives it immense soft power. Moreover, its diverse and industrialized economic sector, and well-developed infrastructure, has earned it the status of being one of Africa’s economic powerhouses. It is also among the most stable countries in the continent in terms of law and order. Diplomatically, the country plays a leading role in the African Union, and is one of the five members of BRICS.