Africa's infrastructure gap has been a long-standing obstacle to the continent's economic success, and a recent report by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation has shed light on the top 10 countries struggling with innovation and development. The report, which assesses countries based on their Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9 ratings, reveals a stark reality: inadequate investment in research, development, and innovation ecosystems is holding back economic growth and competitiveness.

South Sudan tops the list, with an SDG 9 rating of 1.7, followed closely by Somalia, Central African Republic, Congo Republic, and Chad. These countries, along with Madagascar, Niger, Liberia, Burundi, and Guinea, are struggling to create an environment conducive to innovation and industrialization. This lack of investment in research and development is not only hindering economic growth but also limiting job opportunities, particularly for young people.

The consequences of a low SDG 9 rating are far-reaching. Without innovation, governments are unable to diversify their economies, address pressing issues like climate change, and compete in fields such as fintech, health tech, and renewable energy. Moreover, weak digital infrastructure means that substantial segments of the population are left without access to contemporary financial, educational, and healthcare services.

The report highlights the importance of industrialization in creating job opportunities and reducing poverty and inequality. However, the lack of industrial development and innovation in these countries means that they are unable to produce the high-skilled, well-paying employment required to raise people out of poverty and reduce inequality.

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation's report serves as a wake-up call for African governments to prioritize investment in research, development, and innovation ecosystems. By doing so, they can create an environment that fosters economic growth, competitiveness, and job opportunities, ultimately improving the lives of their citizens.

The full list of the top 10 African countries with the worst infrastructure and least innovation is as follows:

1. South Sudan - 1.7

2. Somalia - 5.6

3. Central African Republic - 7.1

4. Congo Republic - 8.1

5. Chad - 9.6

6. Madagascar - 10.3

7. Niger - 11.3

8. Liberia - 11.6

9. Burundi - 12.1

10. Guinea - 13.3

The report's findings underscore the need for African governments to prioritize innovation and industrialization to drive economic growth and competitiveness. By doing so, they can create a brighter future for their citizens and position themselves as key players in the global economy.