Life expectancy across Africa has indeed risen significantly, reflecting the continent’s improved healthcare efforts and economic progress. The United Nations’ World Population Prospects 2022 highlights that Africa’s life expectancy rose by about 10 years on average over the past two decades.
This notable gain reflects efforts to combat health challenges, increase access to healthcare, and improve socio-economic conditions.
In Northern and island nations particularly, life expectancy is high relative to other regions in Africa. Algeria tops the list, with an average life expectancy of 77 years. Cabo Verde, Tunisia, and Mauritius each follow closely with a life expectancy of 76 years. Other countries in the top ten, including Morocco, Seychelles, and Libya, boast life expectancies from 73 to 75 years, while Western Sahara, Egypt, and Senegal range from 69 to 71 years.
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This trend points to advancements in healthcare infrastructure, nutrition, and living conditions across various parts of Africa, particularly in North African and island nations where socio-economic stability and healthcare access have progressed notably.
Here is a table of the top 10 African countries with the highest life expectancy:
Rank Country Life Expectancy
- Algeria 77 years
- Cabo Verde 76 years
- Tunisia 76 years
- Morocco 75 years
- Mauritius 75 years
- Seychelles 75 years
- Libya 73 years
- Western Sahara 71 years
- Egypt 70 years
- Senegal 69 years
This list showcases the top-ranking African countries in terms of life expectancy, with North African and island nations taking the lead due to various socio-economic factors and improvements in healthcare access and quality.
