Education First (EF), a global leader in culturally immersive education, has released the 2025 edition of its EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI), ranking adult English language skills across 123 countries and regions worldwide.

According to EF, the index remains the world’s most comprehensive assessment of English proficiency, drawing insights from millions of test participants globally.

“English remains the world’s most widely shared language for international communication. In a time of growing global complexity, its role as a common bridge between cultures, economies, and ideas is more important than ever,” said Kate Bell, author of the EF EPI and EF’s Head of Assessment.

The EF EPI 2025 is based on results from 2.2 million test takers who completed the EF Skills Evaluation Technology (EF SET), the world’s largest free standardized English test available to both individuals and organizations. This year’s report also marks a milestone, as speaking and writing skills were assessed for the first time, using proprietary artificial intelligence technology developed by Efekta Education Group, EF’s education technology arm.

Globally, South Africa’s English language skills ranked 13th in the world and first in Africa, making it the highest-ranked country on the continent. It is closely followed by Zimbabwe, which also ranked 13th globally and second in Africa.

Kenya and Zambia ranked 19th and 27th globally, placing them third and fourth in Africa, while Nigeria ranked 29th worldwide, emerging as the fifth best English-speaking country in Africa.

Here are 10 best English-speaking countries in Africa 2025

1. South Africa

South Africa tops the African ranking due to the widespread use of English in government, education, media, and business. As one of the country’s official languages, English serves as a unifying medium in a multilingual society and remains central to commerce and higher education.

2. Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe ranks highly as English is the primary language of instruction and administration. Strong literacy levels and long-standing British educational influence have sustained the country’s strong English proficiency.

3. Kenya

Kenya continues to perform strongly, with English serving as an official language alongside Swahili. It is widely used in schools, courts, government institutions, and the private sector, especially in urban and professional settings.

4. Zambia

English is Zambia’s official language and the main medium of instruction in schools. Its consistent use in governance and education has contributed to the country’s solid performance in English proficiency.

5. Nigeria

Nigeria ranks among Africa’s top English-speaking countries, with English serving as the official language and the primary means of national communication. It is widely used in education, governance, media, and business across the country.

6. Ghana

Ghana’s strong showing is linked to English being the official language and the main medium of instruction from basic to tertiary education. Its use in public administration and international engagement further strengthens proficiency levels.

7. Uganda

Uganda maintains a high ranking as English is the official language and widely used in schools, government, and professional environments. It also plays a key role in regional trade and diplomacy.

8. Ethiopia

Although not an official language, English is widely used in Ethiopia’s education system, especially at secondary and university levels. It is also the main working language in higher education and international affairs.

9. Tunisia

Tunisia’s inclusion reflects growing English adoption, particularly among young people and professionals. While Arabic and French dominate, English is increasingly used in technology, tourism, and higher education.

10. Morocco

Morocco continues to make gains in English proficiency as the language grows in popularity among students and the business community. English is increasingly viewed as a key tool for global trade and international relations.