Zimbabwe has been ranked among the 10 best countries in Africa—securing the number nine spot—in the 2026 Best Countries rankings by U.S. News & World Report.
Globally, Zimbabwe ranked 97th out of 100 evaluated nations, while Switzerland took the top spot.
The report’s rankings are based on indicators related to national well-being, including governance, health, economic opportunity, infrastructure, natural environment, and tourism.
Among African nations, the island nation of Seychelles took first place, followed by Morocco and Tunisia. Egypt ranked fourth, South Africa fifth, Algeria sixth, and Ghana seventh.
Kenya placed eighth, just ahead of Zimbabwe, with Nigeria rounding out the top 10.
Zimbabwe’s placement on the list is supported by recent economic resilience and notable milestones.
Following a period of hyperinflation and currency crises, the southern African nation of 17.2 million people achieved a strong economic rebound, with GDP growth hitting approximately 7.5 percent in 2025—surpassing the initial target of 6.6 percent.
It also has recorded single-digit inflation for the first time since 1997.
This recovery is largely driven by agricultural sector rebound, higher global mining prices, and the stabilization of the local currency.
Mining remains the country’s major economic pillar, with exports of gold, platinum, and lithium continuing to attract robust foreign investment.