The Mo Ibrahim Foundation released the 2026 Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG) report on October 31, 2026, assessing governance in 54 African countries. Kenya scored 61 out of 100, ranking 10th among African countries. The country's score was above the continental average of 50.1 and Eastern Africa's regional average of 47.5. This ranking reflects both improvements and setbacks in Kenya's governance over the past decade.
Kenya's overall score rose by 0.9 points between 2016 and 2025, with the strongest improvement in Foundations for Economic Opportunity, which gained 4.1 points to reach 65.3. The country scored 62.4 in Participation, Rights, and Inclusion, and 62.3 in Human Development. These categories indicate areas where Kenya has made progress in governance.
However, Security and Rule of Law was identified as the country's biggest concern, with a score of 54, representing a decline of 4.2 points. This decline makes it the only one of the index's four main categories to decrease. Weaknesses in public procurement were also noted, with Kenya scoring 29.7 in that area after losing 36.4 points over the review period.
Other indicators that declined include public perceptions of the rule of law, which fell to 37.3; media freedom, at 56.6; and public perceptions of anti-corruption efforts, at 27.9. Despite these challenges, Kenya improved in several areas, including protection against discrimination, internet and energy access, and education completion.
Seychelles led the continental rankings, followed by Mauritius, Cabo Verde, Botswana, and South Africa. Namibia, Morocco, Senegal, and Ghana joined Kenya in the top 10. The index assesses governance using 96 indicators drawn from 51 independent data sources, covering four areas: Security and Rule of Law; Participation, Rights and Inclusion; Foundations for Economic Opportunity; and Human Development.
The IIAG report highlights areas of progress and concern for Kenya and other African countries. South Sudan ranked last at 54th, behind Somalia, Sudan, Eritrea, the Central African Republic, Niger, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Chad, Libya, and Guinea-Bissau. The report provides a comprehensive evaluation of governance across the continent.
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation's report offers insights into governance trends and challenges in Africa. By evaluating performance across various categories, the IIAG aims to promote good governance and inform policy decisions. Kenya's ranking and scores provide a basis for stakeholders to engage in discussions on improving governance and addressing areas of concern.
Key points
- Kenya ranked 10th in the 2026 Ibrahim Index of African Governance with a score of 61 out of 100.
- The country's score declined in Security and Rule of Law, and public procurement.
- Seychelles led the continental rankings, followed by Mauritius and Cabo Verde.
