Here are ten compelling destinations, each with reasons that matter for diaspora investors, entrepreneurs, and heritage-seekers.
Country | Why it stands out |
|---|---|
Seychelles | Ranked #1 in the report. Small market but strong governance, stability, high human-development scores—important for low-risk investments. |
Mauritius | #2, in the ranking. Known for investor-friendly frameworks, legal transparency, tax attractiveness, and global connectivity. |
Egypt | Ranked #3. Large population, strategic location (Middle East & Africa), diversifying economy, and reforms improving the outlook. |
South Africa | Ranked #4. Deep financial markets, a diversified economy, strong services and infrastructure base—good for hubs and regional investment. |
Morocco | Ranked #5. Robust governance, strategic industrial growth (automotive, aerospace, agribusiness), and a stable investment climate. |
Ghana | Emerging as a strong West African destination, due to diaspora-friendly initiatives, improving macroeconomics, and an appeal for investment and relocation. |
Côte d’Ivoire | Strong rise in the rankings, driven by infrastructure investment, cocoa/agri-processing expansion, and export diversification. |
Kenya | Ranked in the top 10 (10th) as per the report. Tech ecosystem strength (“Silicon Savannah”), moderate inflation, good growth outlook. |
Botswana | Ranked 13th, but worth noting. Well-governed, stable political economy, focusing on diversification beyond diamonds—interesting for diaspora with a longer-term horizon. |
Algeria | Listed in the upper tier of countries showing promise, based on economic reforms and hydrocarbon diversification potential. (Not always in the top 5 but trending). |
Key Takeaways for the Diaspora, and You
Here’s why this matters if you’re part of the African diaspora and considering relocation, investment, or heritage-based opportunities:
Governance & Stability Matter: The top-ranked countries show that size alone isn’t enough—governance, policy consistency, and institutional strength count a lot.
Beyond Aid, Toward Trade & Investment: The theme of the 2025/26 report is “From aid to investment and trade”. The shift in mindset is clear: Africa isn’t just a recipient—it’s a partner and opportunity.
Favour Countries with Growth + Accessibility: Countries like Kenya and Côte d’Ivoire combine moderate to high growth with improving accessibility and business environment.
Smaller Markets Can Win: Seychelles and Mauritius show that smaller economies can outperform due to high human development, strong infrastructure, and more manageable risk.
Your Role as Diaspora Investor / Relocator: Whether you’re investing capital, starting a business, or relocating for lifestyle or heritage, you can use these country insights to guide where you focus.
Look for Dual Opportunities: Some countries offer both investment potential and relocation/heritage appeal (e.g., Ghana, Botswana), which aligns with diaspora motives of homecoming and entrepreneurship.
A Few Words of Caution
Rankings aren’t guarantees. Every country still has risks: currency fluctuation, regulatory change, and infrastructure shortfalls.
Bigger countries with large markets (e.g., Nigeria) may have potential but also greater volatility—size doesn’t always equal highest investability.
Local context matters: on-the-ground intelligence, local partners, cultural fit, and legal frameworks will determine success.
Time horizon: Some of these opportunities will require patience and a multi-year horizon rather than instant returns.
What You Can Do Next
Choose 1-2 countries from the list that align with your goals (investment, relocation, heritage).
Do a scouting trip to see the business environment, lifestyle, community, and regulations.
Build relationships with local networks, diaspora groups, and investment organisations in that country.
Use the report’s framework (economic performance, market access, stability, human development) as a decision checklist in your planning.
Think long-term and integrate multiple goals: your heritage, community impact, business growth, and personal relocation lifestyle.
Supporting and investing in Africa isn’t just about profit—it's about purpose. As part of the diaspora, you have a unique vantage: the ability to combine heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, and connection.
The RMB “Where to Invest in Africa 2025/26” gives us a map. Now it’s our turn to choose the path.