Minimum wage represents the lowest legal remuneration that workers can receive, intended to ensure they can meet basic living needs.
Across many parts of the world, including Africa, employees often earn far below what is necessary for a decent standard of living.
Nevertheless, several African countries have developed robust policies that prioritise worker welfare, guaranteeing fair compensation and providing a framework for improved livelihoods.
Below are the top 10 African countries with highest minimum wage in 2026
- Morocco – Minimum Wage: $374
Morocco tops the list with a minimum wage of about $374 per month, supported by a diversified economy spanning agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Strong trade links with Europe and the Middle East help sustain economic activity and worker incomes. GDP grew 4.4% in 2025.
- Mauritius – Minimum Wage: $371
Mauritius offers one of Africa’s highest minimum wages at approximately $371.75 per month. The economy is underpinned by tourism, finance, and technology sectors, which support stable employment and higher wages. GDP grew 3.2% in 2025.
- Tunisia – Minimum Wage: $185
Tunisia’s minimum wage stands at around $185.54 per month, with a mixed economy of agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Economic reforms and moderate growth help maintain this wage level. GDP growth was 2.5% in 2025.
- Algeria – Minimum Wage: $185
Algeria’s minimum wage is about $185.25 per month, largely supported by oil and gas exports. Public sector wages and social programs also reinforce the minimum wage framework. The country recorded 3.4% GDP growth in 2025.
- Egypt – Minimum Wage: $149
Egypt has a minimum wage of roughly $149.79 per month. The economy is supported by agriculture, industry, and services, with reforms aimed at boosting investment and employment. GDP grew 4.3% in 2025.
- Botswana – Minimum Wage: $142
Botswana’s minimum wage averages $142.62 per month, backed by diamond-driven revenues. However, the economy experienced a contraction due to weak global demand. GDP contracted by −0.9% in 2025.
- Cape Verde – Minimum Wage: $139
Cape Verde offers a minimum wage of about $139.41 per month, with tourism, services, and remittances driving the economy. GDP grew 5.2% in 2025, among the highest in the top ten list.
- Lesotho – Minimum Wage: $139
Lesotho’s minimum wage is around $139.40 per month. The economy relies on manufacturing, agriculture, and remittances from migrant workers. GDP growth was 1.4% in 2025.
- Kenya – Minimum Wage: $118
Kenya’s minimum wage stands at approximately $118.20 per month. A diversified economy driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and services supports employment and wage floors. GDP grew 4.8% in 2025.
- Mozambique – Minimum Wage: $104
Mozambique has a minimum wage of about $104.92 per month, reflecting its lower-income status. Investments in agriculture and energy are helping the economy gradually expand. GDP growth stood at 2.5% in 2025.
Credit: thenationonlineng.net
