The 2024 Global Safety Report by Gallup has shed light on the alarming state of safety in Africa, with Liberia ranking as the most unsafe country on the continent. The report, which surveyed 146,000 people from 140 countries, reveals that 51% of residents in Sub-Saharan Africa reported feeling unsafe, with Liberia topping the list of the 10 least secure African countries on the law and order index.

The Law and Order Index, which reflects public perceptions of safety, is based on three key areas: feelings of personal safety, confidence in police, and experience of assault and theft. Liberia's poor ranking can be attributed to political corruption and limited access to public services, which have worsened public perceptions of safety. The country's struggles with political instability, armed conflicts, economic inequality, and weak rule of law have created an environment where safety is often at risk.

The report highlights the significance of confidence in local law enforcement in determining people's feelings of safety. Despite a global increase in confidence in police, many African countries struggle to uphold the rule of law due to underfunded or corrupt law enforcement agencies. Poorly trained and resourced police forces, combined with a lack of accountability, hinder their ability to maintain order and protect citizens.

The data reveals that Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest number of unsafe individuals, with 51% of residents reporting feelings of insecurity. This is followed by Latin America and the Caribbean, with 47% of residents reporting similar feelings. The region's struggles with safety are further exacerbated by the lack of economic stability, which affects people's ability to contribute to their communities and lead longer, healthier lives.

The 10 least secure African countries on the law and order index are Liberia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, DRC, The Gambia, Chad, Botswana, Uganda, Gabon, and Eswatini. In contrast, countries like Kuwait, Singapore, and Tajikistan have been deemed the safest countries in the world, with high safety index scores.

The report's findings have significant implications for Africa's economic development and innovation. The lack of safety and security can hinder investment, entrepreneurship, and innovation, ultimately affecting the region's ability to compete in the global economy. As such, it is essential for African governments to address the root causes of insecurity, including political instability, corruption, and weak rule of law, to create an environment conducive to growth and development.

In conclusion, the 2024 Global Safety Report highlights the urgent need for African countries to prioritize safety and security. By addressing the underlying causes of insecurity, African nations can create an environment where citizens can flourish, contribute to their communities, and lead longer, healthier lives. As the region continues to grapple with the challenges of safety and security, it is essential to prioritize innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development to create a brighter future for all Africans.