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: 12.30%
Zambia posted inflation of 11.90% in October, down from 12.30% in September. The decline is largely attributable to improved currency stability and easing food costs, with food inflation dropping to 14.1% from 14.6% the previous month.
The government’s fiscal restructuring, including ongoing creditor engagements, has supported macroeconomic stability. However, Zambia remains exposed to global commodity volatility, especially given its reliance on copper earnings. Earlier in 2025, inflation hovered around 9%–10% but accelerated mid-year as import costs and shipping rates climbed.
