African countries are set for economic growth, with current account balances playing a crucial role. A positive balance, where exports and remittances exceed imports, helps countries withstand external shocks like fluctuating commodity prices and geopolitical instability.

Nations with strong export bases, such as Morocco’s automotive industry, benefit from this surplus. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) supports regional trade and value addition to raw materials.

Read also: Nigeria misses out as 10 African countries set for remarkable economic growth – IMF

According to the IMF’s World Economic Outlook report, a surplus means a country is a net lender to the world, while a deficit indicates it is a net borrower. Maintaining a positive balance is key to long-term economic stability.

Here are the top 10 African countries projected to be top earners in 2025

1. Libya

Libya is projected to lead the African continent in 2025 with a current account balance of 12.5% of GDP. The country’s large oil reserves and steady export revenues have contributed significantly to this projection. Despite the ongoing challenges of political instability and security concerns, Libya’s oil sector remains a major source of income, boosting its economic outlook.

2. Zambia

Zambia follows closely behind with a projected current account balance of 6.9% of GDP. The country’s mining sector, especially copper production, plays a pivotal role in this positive forecast. Zambia has seen growth in copper exports, which has supported the improvement of its external account balance. Efforts to diversify its economy further could provide more stability moving forward.

Read also: Top 10 African countries with the lowest economic growth forecasts for 2024

3. Djibouti

Djibouti, strategically located at the crossroads of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, is projected to have a current account balance of 4.9% of GDP in 2025. The country’s ports are crucial for regional trade, and its growing maritime services sector plays a key role in supporting its positive balance. Moreover, foreign investments in infrastructure are expected to help maintain Djibouti’s earnings from services and trade.

4. Gabon

Gabon is expected to have a current account balance of 3.1% of GDP. The country’s oil and mineral resources continue to drive its economic activity, with oil being the largest contributor to Gabon’s export revenues. Gabon’s efforts to enhance non-oil sectors such as timber and manganese may also help increase the country’s earnings in the near future.

Read also: Top 10 African economies forecasted with the highest GDP growth in 2025

5. South Sudan

South Sudan is projected to have a current account balance of 2.4% of GDP in 2025. The country’s oil exports remain a key revenue generator, despite the challenges posed by its recent history of conflict and political instability. The projection reflects ongoing efforts to stabilise its oil sector, which is expected to provide significant earnings in the years ahead.

6. Republic of Congo

The Republic of Congo is expected to maintain a current account balance of 2.1% of GDP. Like many of its peers, the country’s oil sector drives its economy. The Republic of Congo is taking steps to reduce its dependency on oil exports by promoting diversification through other sectors like agriculture and forestry, which may support its growth in the long run.

Read also: 10 African countries with highest GDP growth forecast for 2024

7. Eswatini

Eswatini, with a projected current account balance of 1.7% of GDP, shows promise in 2025. The country’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. Eswatini’s strong trade links with South Africa and other regional partners, as well as the development of its industrial base, should support its ongoing economic performance.

8. Angola

Angola is projected to reach a current account balance of 1.5% of GDP in 2025. The country’s oil industry remains its most significant economic driver, although there are efforts to diversify through agriculture, fisheries, and manufacturing. The country’s economic stability is expected to improve, contributing to this positive outlook.

Read also: Top 10 African cities set for rapid economic growth by 2035

9. Botswana

Botswana is expected to maintain a current account balance of 1.5% of GDP in 2025. Known for its stable political environment and relatively diversified economy, Botswana’s major revenue sources include diamonds, mining, and tourism. The country’s efforts to strengthen its non-mining sectors may help maintain this positive economic trend.

10. Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe rounds out the list with a projected current account balance of 0.4% of GDP in 2025. Despite the country’s challenging economic history, ongoing efforts to stabilise the economy and boost production in the agriculture and mining sectors may contribute to a modest improvement in its external earnings. Economic reforms and policy adjustments are crucial to sustaining Zimbabwe’s economic recovery.