Inflation has continued to bite hard across Africa, remaining one of the toughest economic pressures weighing on households, governments, and businesses in 2025.
Persistent currency depreciation, rising food prices, higher import costs, and global supply disruptions have kept inflation elevated across the continent.
The latest figures for September and October 2025 show that several African nations are still dealing with double- and in some cases triple-digit inflation, straining household finances and complicating policy responses for governments and central banks.
Sudan maintained its position at the top of the list with the highest inflation rate in Africa, while Nigeria also remained among the top six, despite easing inflation in October.
Top 10 African countries with the highest inflation rates – October 2025
- Sept 2025: 13.20%
Ethiopia recorded a drop in headline inflation to 11.70% in October, down from 13.20% in the previous month. The deceleration reflects improved agricultural supply, better currency management, and less pressure on consumer goods.
Inflation has slowed significantly compared to 19.3% in October 2024, although transport costs remain a major driver, with average prices increasing 27% year-on-year, according to national CPI data. Domestic inflation remains elevated but is gradually moving back toward the central bank’s medium-term target.
