Life expectancy in African countries

Life expectancy across Africa continues to vary widely, reflecting disparities in healthcare access, disease burden and living conditions, according to new data for 2025.

Algeria tops the continent with an average life expectancy of 77 years, followed by Libya and Seychelles at 73 years. Egypt ranks fourth at 72, while Botswana and Mauritania average 69 years. Ethiopia and Namibia stand at 68, with Sudan and Zambia at 67.

South Africa’s life expectancy is 66 years, while Angola averages 65. Kenya and Madagascar both stand at 64 years, as Zimbabwe records the lowest among the top 15 at 63.

High infant mortality, infectious diseases, and limited healthcare infrastructure continue to weigh heavily on life expectancy in many African countries.