Africa has made significant progress in increasing life expectancy, with the average life span reaching nearly 63 years in 2023, up from the early 2000s. According to a report by Statista, Algeria has emerged as the leader in life expectancy, with a newborn infant expected to live over 77 years. Cabo Verde, Tunisia, and Mauritius follow closely, with life expectancies ranging from 77 to 75 years.

The improvement in life expectancy can be attributed to advancements in healthcare infrastructure, better access to vaccines, and progress in the fight against diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis. Algeria, in particular, has benefited from a stable economy and access to essential services, contributing to its high life expectancy rate.

However, many African nations still face considerable challenges, including high mortality rates from preventable diseases, malnutrition, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. Sub-Saharan Africa, in particular, grapples with these issues, with Chad recording the lowest average life expectancy in Africa, at just under 54 years.

The top 10 African countries with the highest life expectancy are Algeria (77.3), Cabo Verde (76.9), Tunisia (76.9), Mauritius (75.7), Morocco (75.2), Seychelles (75), Libya (73.3), Egypt (70.8), Senegal (69.3), and Sao Tome and Principe (68.9). These nations have made significant strides in improving their healthcare systems, economies, and access to essential services.

One of the primary obstacles to longer life expectancy in Africa is the high child mortality rate, which contributes to a lower average life expectancy. Malnutrition, lack of clean water, and inadequate medical care in many rural areas exacerbate these issues. Additionally, Africa's rapid urbanization often leads to overburdened healthcare systems that are ill-equipped to handle the growing population's needs.

Despite the challenges, the progress made in increasing life expectancy is a testament to the efforts of African nations to improve healthcare infrastructure and address the root causes of mortality. As the continent continues to evolve, it is essential to prioritize healthcare and address the disparities that exist between nations.

Source: Statista, Business Insider Africa