South Africa dominates the 2026 rankings as Kenya leapfrogs Nigeria into second place and an Egyptian business tops the list for the first time. Plus: fintechs offer a fix to Africa’s financial problems and a solar success with more than 50mn customers across the continent
The increasing focus on diversification and growth opportunities outside traditional markets is driving attention towards African economies, coupled with improved data collection and analysis.
This data indicates a significant and accelerating economic rebalancing within Africa, highlighting new centers of growth and potentially shifting investment flows.
The rise of Egyptian companies and the leapfrogging of Kenya over Nigeria signify a diversification of economic powerhouses beyond the historically dominant South Africa and Nigeria.
- · Egyptian businesses
- · Kenyan economy
- · Fintech sector in Africa
- · African solar energy providers
- · Nigerian economy (relative to Kenya)
- · Traditional financial institutions
- · Fossil fuel energy providers
Increased foreign direct investment and venture capital into Egypt and Kenya, particularly in fintech and renewable energy.
Enhanced intra-African trade and collaboration as new economic hubs emerge and seek regional partnerships.
Potential for a 'demographic dividend' driven by economic growth and technological adoption in these rapidly expanding regions.
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Read at Financial Times — Technology