Mo Ibrahim Governance Index 2026 shows divergent trends in Mozambique and Angola

The 2026 Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG), released by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation in Cairo, reveals contrasting governance trajectories for Mozambique and Angola between 2016 and 2025.

Mozambique fell six positions to 29th place among 54 evaluated nations, earning a score of 48.8 out of 100. The country experienced an accelerated decline in governance quality starting in 2021, with significant setbacks reported in the areas of rights, gender equality, security, and participation. Notably, Mozambique is the only country among a group of seven nations showing sharp declines that did not experience a coup d'état during the assessment period.

In contrast, Angola is ranked among the ten nations showing the most significant governance improvements over the last decade. The report attributes this progress to reforms initiated during the presidency of João Lourenço, specifically highlighting advancements in anti-corruption measures and economic diversification. The agricultural sector has grown to represent approximately 20% of the national GDP, surpassing oil and contributing to improved governance indicators through increased economic opportunities in rural areas.