A recent report by Afrobarometer, a pan-African research network, has revealed the top 10 African countries with the highest level of police professionalism. The report, which surveyed 39 African countries between 2021 and 2023, provides valuable insights into the challenges and successes of police forces across the continent.

According to the report, Burkina Faso, Morocco, and Benin score highest on the professionalism dimension, with scores of 68%, 64%, and 61%, respectively. These countries have made significant strides in ensuring that their police services meet international standards of professionalism, which are vital for upholding justice, human rights, and public trust.

Corruption remains a major challenge to police professionalism in Africa. The report found that one in three Africans say their police usually operate in a professional manner and respect citizens' rights. However, among respondents who sought police assistance during the year in review, 54% said it was easy to get the help they needed, but 36% said they had to pay a bribe. This highlights the need for African countries to address corruption within their police forces to improve professionalism and public trust.

The report also sheds light on the challenges many Africans face when seeking the protection that law enforcement agencies are supposed to offer. In contrast to the top-performing countries, Sudan, Sierra Leone, Gabon, and Congo-Brazzaville score worst on professionalism, with moderate to poor scores in terms of corruption and police brutality.

The full list of the top 10 African countries with the highest level of police professionalism is as follows: Burkina Faso (68%), Morocco (64%), Benin (61%), Mauritius (59%), Niger (58%), Senegal (56%), Mauritania (54%), Mali (53%), Tanzania (53%), and Botswana (49%).

The Afrobarometer report provides a valuable benchmark for African countries to assess their police forces and identify areas for improvement. As police professionalism is critical for maintaining public order, enforcing the law, and safeguarding citizens' rights, it is essential for African countries to prioritize police reform and development to ensure that their police services meet international standards.

The report's findings have significant implications for African countries, policymakers, and civil society organizations. By highlighting the successes and challenges of police forces across the continent, the report provides a platform for discussion, collaboration, and innovation to improve police professionalism and public trust.

In conclusion, the Afrobarometer report is a timely reminder of the importance of police professionalism in Africa. As the continent continues to evolve and grow, it is essential for African countries to prioritize police reform and development to ensure that their police services meet international standards and provide effective protection to citizens.