Where in Africa should you start a fintech or software company? Four ranked markets and what each offers.

There is no single right answer, because the best place depends on the product. But the ranking data gives a starting point. In the StartupBlink Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2025, as reported by BusinessDay, the top ten African countries were South Africa (52nd globally), Kenya (58th), Egypt (65th), Nigeria (66th), Cape Verde, Ghana, Tunisia, Namibia, Morocco and Senegal. The index weighs the quantity and quality of startup activity and the business environment.

South Africa: the strongest ecosystem

It ranks first in Africa. Cape Town and Johannesburg give founders deep talent pools, universities and investor networks, and the Silicon Cape label has helped brand the Western Cape.

Kenya: mobile-money country

Nairobi, nicknamed the Silicon Savannah, grew around M-Pesa and a strong developer community. For fintech founders, mobile money is already part of everyday life.

Egypt: a funding leader

Reports on funding put Egypt among the top destinations. One report said Egypt had the highest number of funded startups in 2025, at 43, just ahead of South Africa with 42.

Nigeria: the scale market

Lagos, and Yaba in particular, is home to some of the continent’s best-known fintech names, such as Paystack, Flutterwave and PiggyVest. Reports for the first half of 2026 said Nigeria regained momentum in funding.

A caution

Rankings measure ecosystems, not your chances of success. Check the latest figures for the sector you care about, and talk to founders already there. The best market is the one where your customers, talent and investors are within reach.