Mauritius has been ranked first in the Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG) 2014 for the eighth consecutive year, while South Africa ranked fourth overall and third in the region.

Among the 52 countries rated by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, Mauritius scored the highest overall mark of 81.7 points. South Africa scored 73.3 out of 100, which was significantly higher than the average score for the continent of 51.5 points.

The IIAG provides an annual assessment of the quality of governance in African countries. Compiled by combining over 100 variables from more than 30 independent African and global institutions, the IIAG is the most comprehensive collection of data on African governance.

It was established in recognition of the need for a robust, comprehensive and quantifiable tool for civil society to track government performance in Africa. It is Africa's leading annual assessment of governance established to inform and empower the continent's citizens and support governments, parliaments and civil society to assess progress.

“It is indeed with great pride that we welcome the Mo Ibrahim report on governance and we are pleased that Mauritius again tops the ranking for the eighth consecutive year,” commented Republic of Mauritius Financial Secretary Dev Manraj. 

He said the announcement proved that Mauritius continued to lead Africa in terms of its high governance standards. The country had significantly improved its performance in public management, the business environment and in providing sustainable economic opportunities. 

“I am confident that this announcement will further enhance the position of Mauritius as a secure, transparent and trusted environment for foreign direct investment, and also as an ideal platform for outward investments into Africa,” Manraj said.

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation noted that Mauritius also ranked first in Africa for sustainable economic opportunities. This category assessed whether the State provided the conditions necessary for the pursuit of economic opportunities that contribute to a prosperous and equitable society. South Africa scored 71.9 in this category.

It also measures the delivery of sound economic policies and the provision of a sustainable economic environment that is conducive to investment and the operation of a business.

Mauritius also ranked first in the human development category, which evaluates the success of the State in securing the well being of all of its citizens. South Africa scored 78.8 in this category. It measures the extent to which the government provides citizens with social protection, comprehensive education provision and a healthy life.