Nigeria has been ranked third among Africa’s top ten manufacturing nations, according to a recent report by The African Exponent, a leading source of business analysis for African entrepreneurs and investors.
The report highlights the significant manufacturing growth in Africa over the past decade, with several countries standing out for hosting large-scale and influential manufacturing companies. The top ten countries on the list are South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco, Kenya, Algeria, Ethiopia, Ghana, Tunisia, and Zambia.
The report also forecasts that by the end of 2025, Africa’s manufacturing sector will achieve a value-added output of $77.66 billion and a total output of $284.70 billion.
South Africa tops the list as the continent’s most industrialized nation, thanks to its advanced infrastructure, diversified industrial base, and strong global partnerships, particularly in the automotive and chemical sectors. Key manufacturing industries in South Africa include Automotive, Steel, Chemicals, and Food Processing.
Egypt ranks second, with its manufacturing ecosystem thriving through exports to Europe and the Middle East. The country’s strong presence in chemicals, cement, and pharmaceuticals is bolstered by industrial reforms. Major sectors include Cement, Textiles, Pharmaceuticals, and Petrochemicals.
Nigeria’s manufacturing sector continues to expand, driven by major industrial conglomerates such as Dangote Group, BUA Group, Nestlé Nigeria, and Unilever Nigeria. The country’s key manufacturing sectors include Cement, Consumer Goods, Food and Beverages, and Oil Refining, with landmark projects like the Dangote Refinery and BUA Group’s rapid expansion driving Nigeria’s industrial ambitions.
Morocco is also emerging as a leading industrial hub in North Africa, attracting foreign direct investment, especially in high-tech industries like aerospace and automotive manufacturing. The country benefits from strong trade ties with the European Union, making it a strategic export base.
Kenya’s manufacturing strength lies in consumer goods and agro-processing, with Nairobi becoming an innovation hub for pharmaceuticals and plastics, expanding across East and Central Africa.
Algeria, known for Cement, Automotives, Steel, and Electronics manufacturing, blends public and private manufacturing leadership, supported by major conglomerates like Groupe Cevital. The country’s expanding automotive assembly industry and strong infrastructure are helping boost its manufacturing presence in the region.
The report emphasizes the increasing importance of the manufacturing sector in Africa, noting the significant role these nations are playing in shaping the continent’s industrial future.
