Top 10 African Countries with the Most Extra Money in 2025

Maintaining a healthy government balance is very important for the long-term growth of African countries. 

By managing their finances wisely, these countries can reduce their debt, spend more on things like infrastructure, and create stronger economies for the future. 

Countries with a strong financial balance tend to borrow less, which means they can spend more on important things like infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

Here are the top 10 African countries with the most extra money in 2025, based on their general government balance as a percentage of their GDP. This data comes from the World Bank’s Africa Pulse report.

1. São Tomé and Príncipe – 3.9%

São Tomé and Príncipe leads the list with a government balance of 3.9%. This small island nation has managed to keep its finances in good shape, which allows it to invest in important areas without having to borrow too much. A strong financial position means that São Tomé and Príncipe can focus on improving infrastructure and services for its citizens.

2. Congo Republic – 2.7%

The Congo Republic is second with a government balance of 2.7%. The country has also been successful in managing its finances, which will help it grow economically in the future. With this healthy balance, the Congo Republic can deal with economic challenges more easily and invest in its future without relying heavily on borrowing.

3. Equatorial Guinea – 0.4%

Equatorial Guinea ranks third with a government balance of 0.4%. While this surplus is smaller than those of São Tomé and Príncipe or Congo, it still shows that the country is keeping its finances stable. This balance helps Equatorial Guinea fund development projects without taking on a lot of debt.

4. Lesotho – 0.1%

Lesotho comes in fourth with a small surplus of 0.1%. Although the balance is smaller, it still indicates that Lesotho is managing its finances well. This allows the country to make plans for growth while ensuring it doesn’t take on too much debt.

5. Cameroon – 1.0%

Cameroon has a government balance of -1.0%, meaning it is running a small deficit. While it’s not ideal to have a deficit, Cameroon’s is not too large. This allows the country to continue with important economic work, like improving services and building infrastructure, while making sure its debt stays under control.

6. The Gambia – 1.4%

The Gambia is next with a government balance of -1.4%. Like Cameroon, The Gambia is operating with a slight deficit. While it would be better to reduce this deficit, the country is still able to carry out important projects and keep its economy moving forward.

7. Mauritania – -1.4%

Mauritania also has a government balance of -1.4%. Although it’s running a deficit, the country is working on diversifying its economy, which can help it grow and improve its fiscal position. Reducing the deficit will be a key goal for the country’s future.

8. Cabo Verde – -1.5%

Cabo Verde has a government balance of -1.5%. While it is in deficit, Cabo Verde is focusing on developing its economy and improving fiscal management. The goal is to reduce the deficit over time and strengthen the country’s financial stability.

9. Seychelles – -1.6%

Seychelles ranks ninth with a government balance of -1.6%. Despite this deficit, the country continues to focus on improving its economy, mainly through its important tourism industry. Seychelles is working on balancing its budget and addressing its fiscal challenges in the long term.

10. Ethiopia – -1.7%

Ethiopia finishes the list with a government balance of -1.7%. The country has faced some challenges in managing its finances, but it remains one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa. As it works on improving its financial management, Ethiopia’s government aims to reduce its deficit and strengthen the economy.