Which African Countries Would Celebrate 2025 First?

As the clock ticks toward midnight on December 31, we move into several celebrations across the world and in Africa as many are joyous crossing into a new phase. What makes this journey even more fascinating is because of the continent’s vast spread across time zones. The question is simple, which African countries will be the first to ring in 2025?

Africa spans multiple time zones, and that’s what makes its New Year’s celebrations so unique. Starting from the islands in the Indian Ocean to the coasts of West Africa, each country celebrates the New Year at its own time, creating a chain of festivities that unites the continent in joy and hope for the year ahead.

The Early Birds – Mauritius and Seychelles

For Africa, the first countries to welcome 2025 are Mauritius and Seychelles. These island nations, located far off the eastern coast of the continent, are ahead in time. When the clock strikes 8 PM in London, it’s already midnight in these tropical paradises. They kick off the New Year festivities in Africa with fireworks, music, and plenty of dancing.

East Africa Joins the Party

An hour later, at 9 PM in London, much of East Africa welcomes the New Year. This includes countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Madagascar. For these nations, the celebrations are deeply rooted in culture. Whether it’s the beating of traditional drums in Uganda or the iconic parties on Kenya’s beaches, the spirit of the New Year is celebrated with energy and hope.

Central and Southern Africa Follow

By 10 PM in London, a larger wave of countries steps into the New Year. This includes parts of South Africa, Egypt, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana, among others. Fireworks light up the skies over cities like Cape Town and Cairo, while smaller towns and villages gather for communal feasts and prayers. It’s a blend of modern celebrations and deeply held traditions.

West Africa: The Final Countdown

West Africa’s New Year celebrations are some of the most vibrant, though they arrive a little later. By 11 PM in London, nations like Nigeria, Ghana, and Ivory Coast begin their countdowns. In Lagos, street parties take over the city, with music echoing late into the night. Ghana’s coastal towns host cultural festivals, blending New Year festivities with traditional ceremonies.

Cabo Verde Closes the Curtain

Finally, at midnight in London, the small island nation of Cabo Verde celebrates its turn to enter 2025. Positioned further west than mainland Africa, it’s the last African country to welcome the New Year. The celebrations here are intimate and reflective, often centering on family gatherings and local traditions.