Africa's 10 Richest Countries

South Africa is popularly known for its mineral resources such as gold and diamond but the Gold Rush ended way back in the 19th century. There are more things to look forward to in South Africa besides its shiny jewels. Major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town offer a unique experience that can take you from raving nights out in the town to calm mountain ranges by the ocean.

GDP: $595.7 billion

1. South Africa

2. Egypt GDP: $551.4 billion

Sandwiched between Africa and Asia, much of Egypt’s population lies on the banks of the famous Nile Valley. Egypt is known as a cradle of civilization with evidence of human technological advancement obvious from its numerous temples, Pyramids and famous monuments such as the Great Sphinx. Egypt has gathered wealth from as far back as 3200 BC and much of this can be seen in the major cities like Cairo.

3. NigeriaGDP: $478.5 billion

The most populous country in Africa is a major contender on this list, its manufacturing sector being the third largest in Africa while it contributes a considerable share of the world’s oil. Taking into account this country’s population of 170 million, Nigeria is on track to becoming one of the 20 largest economies in the world by 2020. This can be seen in cities likeLagos where the city skyline is composed of tall buildings owned by big multinational corporations.

4. Algeria

GDP: $284.7 billion

Oil and gas exports have placed Algeria on this list. Much of its wealth is gotten from oil deposits deep within the North African soil. Also rich in natural minerals, it is suggested that the ancient Romans collected stones and marbles from quarries in what is now known as Algeria. You can find onyx, red and white marbles, iron, lead, and zinc in large quantities. It’s capital city, Algiers offers rare beauty in the intricate architecture of its most famous buildings.

6. Angola

GDP: $131.8 billion

Angola may not have come to mind as one of the top 10 richest countries in Africa but surprisingly, it has a large deposit of oil and gas resources, diamonds, and bountiful agricultural land. Still recovering from the 27-year civil war that lasted from 1975-2002, Angola has made efforts to revive its economy with heavy oil and agricultural exports. Cities like Luanda are undergoing major reconstruction to make Angola a top African destination.

7. Ethiopia

GDP: $118.2 billion

As one of the fastest growing economies in the world, Ethiopia has had to contend with the rising number of able youths eager to work. The Ethiopian economy depends largely on agriculture so if you’ve got an Ethiopian cousin, he’s most likely learning the tools of the farming trade, although you wouldn’t find such people in the country’s capital, Addis Ababa. Most young people in Addis Ababa are into telecommunications and the financial industry, spending their free time sipping local coffee and touring the magnificent buildings.

8. TunisiaGDP: $108.4 billion

Oil, tourism and car manufacturing parts are the name of the game in Tunisia. It is one of the wealthiest countries in Africa so you won’t wander too far into its cities like Tunis before finding a pleasant spot to relax. The city is covered with bits of opulence from as far back as the 12th century. Year-round sunshine and the affordable Tunisian lifestyle have drawn tourists here who now call this place home.

9. GhanaGDP: $90.41 billion

Ghana can be tagged as one of the only nations on this list that depend on technological products to live up to its name. Economic industrialization has taken over in cities like Accraand Kumasi with major exports of manufacturing, construction, and digital products and services. It is one of the most economically sound countries in all of Africa, that’s why citizens of nearby countries come to Ghana for business and pleasure.

10. Sudan  GDP: $89.97 billion

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