Africa Ranks Justice; Nigeria Missing Among Top 10 Performers

DDM News

In a newly released continental judicial performance ranking, ten African countries have been recognized for having the most effective and trusted legal systems, with Cabo Verde, Botswana, and South Africa taking the top three positions.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the ranking, which highlights judicial independence, rule of law, transparency, and enforcement of legal rights, places Cabo Verde as the African country with the most respected judiciary.

This West African island nation has consistently earned accolades for its democratic principles, independent courts, and low perception of corruption.

Botswana follows closely in second place, maintaining its longstanding reputation for institutional integrity and good governance.

The country’s judiciary is known for upholding the rule of law and operating without undue influence from the executive arm of government.

South Africa comes in third, boasting a well-established constitutional court and a judiciary that has, over the years, demonstrated resilience in safeguarding civil liberties and checking political excesses.

Despite facing political turbulence, South Africa’s courts have remained largely independent and respected within the region.

The rest of the top ten includes Tunisia (4th), Rwanda (5th), Morocco (6th), Kenya (7th), Mauritius (8th), Ghana (9th), and Namibia (10th).

Tunisia’s inclusion is largely attributed to its post-Arab Spring legal reforms, which sought to strengthen democratic institutions and judicial transparency.

Rwanda, under President Paul Kagame, has made significant investments in digitizing its court processes and improving access to justice, although concerns over political repression still linger.

Morocco and Kenya’s judiciaries have made notable strides in constitutional reforms and case management systems.

Both countries have witnessed increased public confidence in recent years, with landmark judgments that challenge government overreach and promote accountability.

Mauritius, a small island country in the Indian Ocean, continues to be a model of political and legal stability in the region, while Ghana’s Supreme Court remains a beacon of constitutional law in West Africa.

Namibia, known for its robust human rights framework and judicial transparency, rounds off the top ten list.

Observers note that the countries on this list have been recognized for making deliberate efforts to ensure judicial independence and improve access to justice for their citizens.

The report is being celebrated by legal reform advocates across Africa, who see the rankings as motivation for other countries to strengthen their judicial systems and promote the rule of law.

Critics, however, argue that while rankings are useful, they often mask the daily struggles of average citizens in seeking justice.

Many still face lengthy court delays, lack of legal aid, and, in some regions, political interference.

Nonetheless, the list serves as both a commendation and a challenge, urging African leaders to invest in legal institutions, safeguard judicial independence, and guarantee justice as a fundamental right for all.

As the continent continues to navigate political transitions and economic pressures, the role of a trustworthy judiciary becomes even more critical to democracy, development, and human rights protection.

👇👇👇

Follow DDM’s official WhatsApp Channel for real-time updates.

https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vajkwdc4dTnFHl19vW3g

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook