Africa is the second largest continent in the world and also second most populous continent with Asia taking the Top spot on both counts.
The common belief among many is that Africa in general is under-developed which is not entirely the truth. The media are also not helping as they often focus on the dark sides of the places.
A lot of rebuilding has taken place and Africa is now on the right track after years of conflict which had dragged the region back. More people are now moving into Africa due to endless opportunities over there.
In this post, we will be highlighting some reasons why you should consider moving to Africa and the best places to live there.
12 Reasons to Live In Africa
Source: UNSPLASH
Additionally, African cultures are incredibly rich and diverse, and there is a lot to learn from them. Overall, Africa is a great place to live, and the following are ten reasons why.
1. Africa is a Safe Place to Live
Africa is not as bad as how people made it look like on social media. Of all continents, it is always perceived as a region where crisis thrives which is not true. Almost every country in the world has this issue.
Despite what you may have read or heard, there are several places that are safe to visit or even live if you plan on settling down there. These countries are always working and eliminating any threats.
2. Great Food
In Africa, you will find abundance of great food with unique and lovely taste. There are diversities which equally means there is a wide variety of great food to try out.
For example, Ethiopian cuisine consists of various spicy meat and vegetable dishes served atop flatbread. Meanwhile, the traditional cuisine of Zanzibar consists mainly of seafood dishes served with tropical fruits. Overall, African food is sure to please anyone’s taste buds.
3. Africa has Many Interesting Cultures
Africa is home to hundreds of vibrant cultures, and each one is fascinating in its own way. Many African cultures revolve around the concept of family, and they place a great emphasis on taking care of each other. For example, in Zimbabwe, it is customary for members of the extended family to live together in a large house where various generations work together to support one another. Many African cultures also have their own unique traditions when it comes to child-bearing, marriage ceremonies, and celebrations.
4. Africa is Home to Some Great Cities
In recent years much progress has been made in several African cities, and these urban centers are well worth visiting or living in. In particular, Cape Town in South Africa offers many attractions such as beautiful beaches and mountains in close proximity to one another for hiking and skiing enthusiasts respectively, while Kigali offers a cosmopolitan environment in which to live. Additionally, many popular European cities are only a short plane ride away from Africa if you are looking for an urban experience with plenty of diversity.
5. Several African Countries Enjoy Political Stability
One of the best aspects of living in Africa is political stability. The vast majority of African countries have undergone successful elections in recent years, and many have democratically elected governments that have held office for several consecutive terms. This means that it is safe to invest money in these countries without fear that your investments will be confiscated or that your business might be nationalized by a dictator, as has happened in other regions under similar circumstances. 6. Many African Countries are Rich in Natural Resources…
7. Tourism!
Source: UNSPLASH
Africa has plenty of beauty to offer visitors in the form of spectacular landscapes and intriguing natural wonders. In South Africa, for example, there are many national parks offering a chance to view animals such as lions and penguins in their natural habitat. Meanwhile, Kenya is known for its beautiful wildlife reserves and extensive coral reefs while Tanzania offers beaches that rival those found anywhere else on earth.
8. Many African Countries Enjoy a Decent Quality of Life
Since many African countries have high rates of economic growth and political stability, they often rank very highly on various quality of life scales. For example, South Africa has been ranked among the top fifteen countries by the United Nations’ Human Development Index every year since 1994 when records began being kept. Other African countries such as Botswana and Mauritius have also fared quite well when it comes to quality of life.
9. Education is Often Affordable in Africa
Whether you are looking for a high school diploma, undergraduate degree, or graduate degree in Africa, the costs involved in obtaining these qualifications tend to be lower than what they would in other regions. For example, South Africa and Nigeria boast several public universities that do not charge tuition to local students and only ask for proof of residence in order to enroll. Meanwhile, universities in Nigeria offer many academic scholarships which make it much easier for foreign students to live there while studying for their degrees at highly ranked institutions such as the University of Ibadan.
10. Many African Countries are Safe
Compared with other regions throughout the world, African countries are generally a very safe place to live and work. In fact, some of the most dangerous places on earth are in Brazil, Mexico or Venezuela while African countries have been largely immune from problems such as gang violence which plague regions elsewhere. These days terrorist groups tend to congregate in parts of the Middle East rather than Africa, where they pose less of a threat to people living in the region and its surrounding areas.
11. Africa’s Job Market is Booming
Since many African countries enjoy a relatively high rate of economic growth, their job markets are doing quite well which means it may be easier to find work there than in other regions such as Europe or North America. Also, because most Africans tend to speak at least two languages, it may be easier for them to secure a job in Africa than elsewhere as long as they are willing to do some research and spend time visiting different organizations.
12. African Countries Tend to be Closely Knit
Thanks to their shared colonial history and often similar cultures, many African countries enjoy close ties with one another. In fact, many African countries even participate in a long-standing agreement known as the East African Community which makes it easier for people from member nations to migrate and work in other parts of Africa. This helps to ensure that African workers have plenty of opportunities available to them when they look for a job abroad.
20 Best Places to Live In Africa
Are you planning to live in Africa and want to find out the best cities on the continent to live in; you’re much on track!
20. Casablanca, Morocco
Rough sea, Casablanca, Morocco | Source; UNSPLASH
Casablanca is more than just a bustling metropolis on the coast of Africa. It’s also one of Morocco’s biggest cities, an important Atlantic port with vast international trade links that extend all around Europe and beyond to China Acre or even Sydney!
Casablanca has grown into something much greater since it was founded back in 1519 as part Of The Ottoman Empire.
Casablanca offers a high standard of living, with good infrastructure and access to education and health care.
The city is also home to a lively arts and culture scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and theaters. And thanks to its location on the Atlantic Coast, Casablanca enjoys cool breezes year-round.
The cost of living in Casablanca is also relatively low compared to other cities in Africa. This makes it an attractive option for ex-pats looking for a quality lifestyle at an affordable price.
These days you’ll find this former capital city hosting countless conferences every year because when else can we show off our beautiful country?
19. Victoria, Seychelles
Excellent forest view in Victoria, Port Glaud, Seychelles. | Source: UNSPLASH
The capital city, Victoria is the main commercial and economic hub for Seychelles. The island is home to over one-third of its population!
Victoria, the main commercial and economic hub of Seychelles according to Lonely Planet. It is also home to approximately one-third population who live in this country’s capital city located on its northeast coast with a Creole culture that has plenty of attractions for tourists as well!
The tropical rainforest climate could be an attractive feature if you were considering moving there permanently or just visiting frequently enough over time- it rains less than other areas but still enjoys warm days every now.
Victoria, Seychelles is one of the best places to live in Africa because it has a high quality of life, and it is considered to be a safe place to live.
The country has a high HDI score, and it also ranks well in terms of peace and security. In addition, the cost of living in Victoria, Seychelles is relatively low compared to other countries on the continent, making it an affordable place to live. Finally, the country enjoys a tropical climate with plenty of sun and beach time year-round.
18. Rabat-Morocco
Source: UGC
Rabat is one of Morocco’s four imperial cities and it has a French influence. The capital city lies along the Atlantic coast, home to many textiles industries as well as fishing farmings and manufacturing; however its ideal Mediterranean climate makes this place popular with people looking for outdoor life activities like golfing or surfing – there are plenty!
There are many reasons why Rabat-Morocco is considered to be one of the best places to live in Africa. Rabat is a very safe city, with a low crime rate. The weather is mild all year round, with average temperatures ranging from 20-25 degrees Celsius.
There is a wide variety of cultural and recreational activities available in Rabat, including museums, parks, restaurants, and nightlife.
Healthcare and education are both excellent in Rabat, and there are plenty of job opportunities available.
The cost of living in Rabat is relatively low compared to other major cities in Africa.
17. Durban, South Africa
Durban Skyline, Durban South Africa
Durban is a fantastic city in South Africa that has been overlooked by many ex-pats. It’s located on the East Coast, overlooking beautiful beaches and ocean views while also being home to several nature reserves with diverse wildlife including elephant seals!
The 3 million people who live here make it one of the fastest-growing cities too so you’ll never lack options when looking at where your future could take place – whether industrial or outdoor lifestyle-oriented there are plenty of things available depending upon what type of museum/ attraction floats YOUR boat?
There are many reasons why Durban is considered one of the best places to live in Africa. From its diverse culture and natural wonders to its robust economy and endless job opportunities, there’s something for everyone in this coastal city.
Some of the key factors that make Durban a great place to live include:
• The amazing weather, with year-round temperatures in the mid-20s, it’s no wonder Durban is known as the “sunshine city.” The beaches are also perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing;
• The variety of cultural experiences on offer, from traditional Zulu dance performances to vibrant Indian bazaars, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Durban;
• With The numerous employment opportunities, with companies such as Investec and Shoprite on the rise, job security has never been better
Durban is also home to some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in all of South Africa. Whether you take a boat ride along the beautiful beaches or explore one of its amazing marine reserves, you’re guaranteed to come away with the best souvenir photos.
16. Port Louis, Mauritius
Beach in Port Louis, Mauritius
Mauritius is a popular vacation spot in the Indian Ocean due to its location and lush landscapes. It’s also one of Africa’s most financially developed countries thanks largely to their capital city Port Louis- which has both an international airport as well as seaport facilities that contribute significantly towards this nation’s economy; not only does it provide jobs but hosting events like mondialisation MAURITIUS 2015 helped boost tourism even further!
It’s consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in Africa due to its high standard of living, economic stability, and lack of political turmoil.
Port Louis is also home to a large international community, making it an ideal place for expatriates. The city offers a wide range of amenities, including excellent healthcare and education facilities, as well as a wide range of leisure activities. And thanks to its location on the coast, Port Louis offers stunning ocean views.
On the 7th of January 2022, the European Commission removed Mauritius from its list of high-risk third countries after determining that it no longer suffers from significant shortcomings in accordance with Directive (EU) 2015/849.
15. Asmara-Eritrea
Asmara-Eritrea
Asmara, the beautiful and safe city of Eritrea is one that anyone would be excited about. With stunning architecture throughout its entire area, you will never run out of scenery as long as there’s an inch or two left unspoiled for exploration!
A large Italian-Eritrean community resides in this bustling metropolis which was first established during colonial times; making it home to many people with similar cultures who can share experiences together.
There are a number of factors that make Asmara-Eritrea one of the best places to live in Africa. For starters, the country has a very low crime rate and is considered to be quite safe. Asmara boasts something special not found anywhere else: safety – so many achievements have made sure none other than themselves could threaten peace within these boundaries.
Additionally, the government provides its citizens with free healthcare and education, which is a huge benefit for families. In terms of infrastructure, Asmara-Eritrea ranks among the best in Africa with excellent roads, hospitals, schools, and other amenities.
Finally, the cost of living in Eritrea is relatively low when compared to other African countries. All things considered, it’s easy to see why Eritrea is often ranked as one of the best places to live on the continent.
14. Grahamstown, South Africa
Grahamstown, South Africa
This should be an easy choice for many. Grahamstown, South Africa remains a favorite for anyone looking for a safe harbor as well as a place with a very strong economy.
The city has recorded many successes across industries including Agriculture and Tourism. It has a well-developed healthcare system, good educational institutions, and ample job opportunities.
Another plus is the strong infrastructure which will even make the place comfortable for you. The school, Rhodes University which is one of the prestigious universities in Africa is also situated in the city.
Finally, Grahamstown is even a very safe place to live; it has low crime rates and good security measures in place.
13. Algiers, Algeria
Algiers, Algeria
Algeria is a lovely African country on its own with lots of friendly faces. Algiers, the state capital is at the center of its attraction. Being the capital, more works have been put into it which makes it an ideal place to live in Africa.
Algeria is lovely, no doubt about that. It can be a great experience for anyone looking to spend some quality time or move there permanently. The lovely scenery, great foods, ancient ruins, to name a few, are among what makes the place special.
12. Accra, Ghana
Accra Ghana-Independence Square Accra Ghana
Accra Ghana-Independence Square Accra Ghana
Accra is one of the most popular cities in Africa and has fully integrated into a modern lifestyle. The city is blessed with excellent infrastructure and amenities that makes living there pleasant.
Although it is not vast in size, anyone who is opportuned to visit will love the city. Is it the energizing nightlife, the lovely atmosphere and the wonderful people you get to meet? There is so much about Accra that you are going to love irrespective of what you heard about Africa.
By the time you are done with the sightseeing, you might even consider moving there. Job opportunities are there and also a platform where you can start your own business. So if you’re looking for an African city with it all, then Accra is definitely worth considering!
11. Lagos, Nigeria
Lagos City, Nigeria
Lagos is the pride of Nigeria and by far, the most popular city in Africa. It is also the city with the fastest growing economy which equally makes the best option for anyone looking to move into Nigeria.
The endless opportunities, the social life, infrastructure, good healthcare and access to quality education are among what makes Lagos City a popular choice for many.
Despite all these positives, Lagos is not without its challenges as traffic congestion is a major problem, but its attractions make it a great place to live in Africa. With its rapidly growing economy and rich cultural heritage, Lagos is sure to continue attracting expatriates and investors alike.
10. Gaborone, Botswana
Debswana Diamond Company Ltd H’QTRS Gaborone, Botswana | Source: WORLD ATLAS
You can’t visit Gaborone, a lovely city in Botswana without loving the place. When you arrive, you are going to find many reasons why people often migrate in large numbers to Gaborone.
First, the political stability which is not often the case with many African countries is admirable. And for the economy, it is very encouraging and that is largely due to being a hub for diamonds.
Another reason why people tend to move to the city is because it is very peaceful. Finally, you will also find Gaborone very clean which can be beneficial towards maintaining a healthy lifestyle
9. Kumasi, Ghana
Kumasi, Ghana | Source: UGC
Aside from Accra in Ghana, you can’t also go wrong with Kumasi for its rich culture, beautiful natural surroundings, stunning plants and nice people.
Kumasi is the second largest city in Ghana. It is a very memorable place with lots of attractions. The town is very safe to live in as the level of crime is very low. And the best part of it is there is a culture of friendliness often shown to both visitors and migrants.
The cost of living is also low when compared to some cities in Africa. If you want a peaceful scenery with lots of opportunities, we are sure Kumasi fits such a profile.
Overall, Ghana is a great place to call home!
8. Libreville, Gabon
stade_omnisport_libreville, Gabon | Source: UGC
Of all the attractions, it is almost impossible not to notice that Libreville is a waterfront which makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy life. The city enjoys a warm climate all year round, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy outdoors, from swimming and sunbathing on the beach to fishing and kayaking in the bay.
The city is also a good place to move in considering the easily accessible healthcare service, good standard of living, quality education and amenities. The security is also top notch, but not entirely free from the occasional crimes that are also common in most countries.
7. Kigali, Rwanda
Kigali, Rwanda | Source: WORLD ATLAS
Normalcy has returned to Rwanda, it is now one of the safest countries in the world.
To back up the claim, it was recently recognized as the safest country in Africa and 9th in the world. This is a country that had experienced genocide which took a lot from the country.
The crime rate is now very low especially in Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. Locals and visitors have nothing to worry about when it comes to their safety.
There is also a good transportation system. The bus fares are so cheap that you may even get used to them rather than using your personal car. Then the infrastructure, the green spaces, and and great accommodation options, just to name a few would give anyone a pleasant experience.
The roads in Kigali are also in good shape. A way to ensure that rides can move about without any hitch. It also boasts of parks and relaxation spots.
Also, a perfect place to move in as it offers job opportunities along with a platform for anyone to grow. Kigali is quickly becoming one of the most desirable places to live on the continent.
6. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town, South | Source: THE CULTURE TRIP
Cape Town is one of the most beautiful and developed cities in Africa. It offers its residents a high standard of living, comparable to most metropolitan cities in the world.
Some of the key benefits of living in Cape Town include its temperate climate, diverse culture, world-class amenities and infrastructure, ample job opportunities, and excellent schools. Additionally, Cape Town is a safe city with a low crime rate.
In Cape Town, there are many reasons why it’s such a great place to live. The city is very colorful, with stunning architecture and gorgeous beaches that make for perfect natural scenery.
Cape Town also offers plenty of attractive outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to swimming and sailing. And last but not least, the city is surrounded by some of the best wine vineyards in Africa.
Cape Town is also quickly becoming a leading city for business in Africa. Not only is it the hub of Africa’s insurance sector, but it is also home to a thriving digital industry.
We can’t deny that Cape town is one of the lovely cities in South Africa. A city with exquisite views, beautiful beaches and several attractions. It is no surprise why it is often visited by tourists from all over the world.
The standard of living in Cape Town is high when compared to most metropolitan cities in the world. The advantage is the numerous opportunities one can tap from this city.
The town is also interesting. The stunning architecture, the lively areas, great restaurants, and attractive outdoor activities that include swimming, hiking and biking are enough to leave a lasting impression.
It is also a nice environment to move in. It does not matter whether you are single or have a family, you have everything you need in Cape Town. Be it quality education, standard amenities, equipped infrastructure, ans world class education system.
The city is perfect to set up business. Infact, it is already roaring with several businesses. Many entrepreneurs have set up there and are already benefiting from the strong economy and purchasing power of the people.
5. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania | Source: Fi.co
Dar es Salaam is what you will picture a modern city to be. The town sits on the coast of Tanzania and has over 4 million residents. It has a tropical climate.
The city has been enjoying great development coupled with a growing economy. The government has also invested their efforts in infrastructure and amenities. Education is of great quality in Dar es Salaam with University of Dar es Salaam one of the attractions. The citadel of learning is one of the largest universities in Africa.
There is also a free education for the foundational students, that is all children in the primary level will be exempted from paying tuition fees.
Another reason why you will love to call Dar es Salaam a home is the security measures put in place, a platform to grow and the political stability being enjoyed by all locals and the migrants.
4. Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi, Kenya | Source: UGC
One lovely city you can’t go wrong with is Nairobi. It is a top choice for any professional, or entrepreneur looking to set up due to several untapped opportunities.
The massive transformation is so visible and most of it is largely due to the ability of the Government to provide a platform for businesses to thrive. The state capital has it all whether you are looking to enjoy your holiday, or want to relocate for survival.
The infrastructure and amenities are in good shape which have also become among the key reasons to move there. The economy is also strong with many startups thriving there.
On the education part, they are still a bit behind but that does not mean it is all bad. An investment in facilities would no doubt skyrocket the level.
In terms of security of lives and properties, the country is not bad, but still prone to occasional petty crimes like most bubbling cities.
3. Tunis, Tunisia
Image Source: LonelyPlanet
Tunis, Tunisia is a great place to live in Africa. The city has been ranked as one of the best happiest places you can live in Africa.
It’s a tourist destination, so there are plenty of activities and opportunities to enjoy yourself. Tunisians have a high life expectancy, around 78 years. The cost of living is relatively low when compared to other countries in Europe.
The weather is temperate, with hot summers and mild winters. English is widely spoken, making it easy for foreigners to get around.
The Tunisian economy is based mainly on agriculture, which employs about one-third of the labor force. Services, including tourism, account for about two-thirds of GDP.
Tunisia’s economic liberalization policies and its good relations with the West have attracted foreign investment, but terrorism and regional instability have reduced tourism and investment since 2015.
2. Abuja, Nigeria
Source: UGC
Abuja city has everything you ever want in a modern city. Good planning, efficient transportation system, basic infrastructure, good accommodation, and clean scenery.
There is also more to it especially for those who are looking for a place with a high social lifestyle. In the city of Abuja, there are a good number of luxurious hotels, high end restaurants, bars and even clubs.
And if you have got kids or just want simple yet memorable fun, there are good spots for that. The most common attractions are millennium park, abuja garden, ibb international golf & country club, national monument, and cinemas.
Houses are very expensive in Abuja but there are lots of opportunities down there. Still, you can also find a more affordable house in nearby towns.
Abuja is safe for both lives and properties with very low crimes. The roads are standard and well-maintained which is part of the reason why accidents rarely occur.
1. Johannesburg, South Africa
Sandton City, Jo’burg, South Africa | Image Source: Envato Images
Johannesburg is one of the best cities to live in in Africa. The city is in South Africa and is quite popular among many folks. Its diversity as well as setup makes it an easy choice for anyone. It is also one of the wealthiest cities and easily noticeable especially with numbers of booming businesses there.
It exbibits every traits that you would normally associated with urban location. The city is classy and well refined.
If you are plannning to move to Johannesburg, aside from the state of security, you are likely to be very interested in the economy. The good news is the economy is strong and with more than enough opportunities to grab while you are there.
In addition, Johannesburg is home to some of the best schools and universities on the continent. Whether you’re looking for a new opportunity or just want to experience all that Africa has to offer, Johannesburg is definitely worth considering.
