Top 5 English Speaking Countries in Africa

In this article, we will take a look at the top 5 English speaking countries in Africa. If you would like to read our discussion on English proficiency in Africa, you can go to the Top 15 English Speaking Countries in Africa.

5. Zimbabwe

English Speaking Population: 82.07 %

Zimbabwe is one of the countries with the most official languages (16). The main languages are Shona, spoken by about 42%, and Ndebele, spoken by around 39% of the country’s population. English is the language of choice for most government, business, and educational institutions in the country. With a population of 17 million, Zimbabwe expects a GDP growth reduction to 3.25% due to drought conditions affecting agricultural output and a decrease in global demand for its agricultural exports.

4. Liberia

English Speaking Population: 82.87 %

Liberia is the only African state that has evaded colonial rule by major colonial powers. It is known to be Africa’s oldest republic. The nation has a multilingual landscape, with over 20 indigenous languages spoken. English serves as the official language in Liberia, alongside the prevalent Kpelle dialect. Liberia anticipates a real GDP growth rate of 4.8% in 2024, primarily due to advancements in the mining and agricultural sectors.

3. Sierra Leone

English Speaking Population: 83.53 %

Sierra Leone, situated in West Africa along the Atlantic Ocean, secured its independence from British rule in 1961. English is the country’s official language and is widely used in educational institutions, government offices, and formal contexts. Meanwhile, the predominant native language is Krio, a Creole dialect derived from English, spoken by approximately 90% of the nearly 9 million inhabitants. The nation expects a rise in real GDP growth to 3% in 2024, compared to 2.1% the previous year.

2. Nigeria

English Speaking Population: 86.42 %

Nigeria has a diverse population comprising over 500 distinct tribes and ethnicities. English is the country’s official language, predominantly used in educational and official contexts. However, it is less common among lower-income groups, the rural populace, and certain educational demographics. The primary regional languages include Hausa, Fulani, Igbo, and Yoruba. With a population exceeding 229 million in 2024, Nigeria anticipates a real GDP growth of approximately 3% despite dealing with economic challenges due to a weak currency and inflation.

1. Uganda

English Speaking Population: 89.90 %

Uganda is an East African country with English as the official language. The most spoken local languages in the country are Luganda and Swahili. English proficiency is notably high in the country primarily due to its inclusion in the curriculum of all primary schools. Uganda has a population of around 49.9 million as of March 2024. The country’s GDP is expected to grow 6.7% in 2024.