Nigeria, Sudan, 10 least peaceful countries in Africa in 2025

Despite efforts across the continent to promote peace and stability, several African countries remain at the bottom of the 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI). These nations are plagued by internal conflict, armed insurgencies, political instability, and weak governance—making life increasingly difficult for millions.

Below is a rundown of the 10 least peaceful African countries in 2025, based on the latest GPI findings compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace:

1. Sudan

Sudan continues to experience intense civil conflict between rival military factions, leading to widespread displacement, humanitarian collapse, and a near-total breakdown of civil governance.

2. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo)

The eastern DRC remains a hotbed of violence with multiple armed groups vying for control, resulting in civilian massacres, resource exploitation, and massive refugee flows.

3. South Sudan

Years after gaining independence, South Sudan remains mired in ethnic tensions, civil unrest, and economic instability, with limited government capacity to enforce peace.

4. Somalia

Despite some improvements in governance, Somalia still battles the persistent threat of al-Shabaab insurgents and widespread insecurity, particularly outside the capital, Mogadishu.

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5. Mali

Following repeated coups and ongoing jihadist violence, Mali faces severe unrest, especially in its northern and central regions, weakening the state’s control and trust.

6. Burkina Faso

Violence from extremist groups has escalated dramatically, displacing hundreds of thousands and creating a humanitarian crisis in large parts of the country.

7. Nigeria

Africa’s most populous nation faces persistent challenges from terrorism (notably Boko Haram and ISWAP), banditry, and communal clashes, especially in the northeast and Middle Belt.

8. Ethiopia

Although the Tigray War saw a peace deal in late 2022, Ethiopia still struggles with ethnic conflicts and unrest in other parts of the country, like Amhara and Oromia.

9. Chad

Chad remains politically fragile, with armed rebellion and tensions following recent transitions in power. Its strategic location also makes it vulnerable to spillover from nearby conflict zones.

10. Cameroon

The Anglophone crisis in Cameroon continues to fuel violence between separatists and government forces, leading to deadly clashes and deteriorating civil rights.

The Bigger Picture

These rankings underline the urgent need for deeper diplomatic efforts, peacebuilding mechanisms, and humanitarian assistance. Conflicts in these nations not only destabilize their borders but also impact neighboring countries, making regional cooperation essential for long-term peace.