What position does Somalia hold among the 10 happiest countries in Africa in 2026?

What position does Somalia hold among the 10 happiest countries in Africa in 2026?

The happiness of a country's people is not solely dependent on the economic wealth of that country, this is the conclusion drawn from the World Happiness Report 2026, which is published annually with support from the United Nations, and measures the quality of life satisfaction of people living in over 140 countries.

The report is largely based on several factors including:

- The healthy life expectancy of most of that population

- The freedom individuals have to make their own choices

Within Africa, the top ten countries have varying circumstances, some have achieved their ranking through stable economies, while others have earned it through strong social connections or quality government services.

Mauritius, Libya, and Algeria have once again emerged as the top countries on the continent. They share characteristics such as long life expectancy, good government services, and income above the African average.

Mozambique and Gabon filled the top five, while Ivory Coast, Cameroon, South Africa, Niger, and Tunisia completed the ten happiest countries in Africa.

Globally, Finland still holds its first place for the sixth consecutive year, confirming the leadership of Nordic countries in the world happiness rankings.

The World Happiness Report 2026 was published on March 19, 2026, and produced by the Oxford University Centre for Wellbeing Research, in collaboration with Gallup, the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), and an independent panel of scientists.

The report also provides an overview of the well-being of people living in over 140 countries.

Mauritius ranks 73rd in the world, maintaining its position as the happiest country in Africa.