Africa Ascends: Two new countries make their debut on the IMD global competitiveness ranking

ILO News - Ghana and Nigeria have been included in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking 2024. Facilitated by ILO in partnership with Pan-African Productivity Association (PAPA) and the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), the two countries now join South Africa and Botswana, doubling Africa’s representation in the ranking. The IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook is a comprehensive annual report and worldwide reference point on the competitiveness of countries. 

The inclusion of the two African economies in this year’s ranking is underpinned by ILO’s ongoing collaboration with the African Union (AU) and PAPA, aimed at supporting the implementation of the Abidjan Declaration. One area of collaboration focuses on strengthening PAPA, promoting knowledge to establish an enabling business environment, and facilitating regional cooperation between national agencies in charge of supporting SMEs and between productivity centers. 

Accurate measurement of productivity is crucial for identifying productivity constraints and opportunities, understanding the productivity-decent work linkages, and aiding Governments and social partners in making informed decisions. Joining the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking serves as an important motivator for countries, offering an opportunity for capacity building on productivity statistics and measurement.

Additionally, inclusion in the ranking strengthens the representation of African economies on the global competitiveness stage, highlighting the region’s growing significance and its efforts towards achieving economically, socially and environmentally sustainable development.