While Cotonou leads as a model of cleanliness in West Africa, Abidjan and Yaoundé still grapple with sanitation challenges despite notable efforts.
Cotonou: A Beacon of Cleanliness in West Africa
Scoring an impressive 7.3 out of 10, Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin, has claimed the 6th spot globally and leads as the cleanest city in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
This achievement stems from ambitious initiatives by local authorities aimed at transforming the urban landscape.
The creation of the Société de Gestion des Déchets et de la Salubrité du Grand Nokoué (SGDS-GN) has been pivotal in addressing chronic sanitation issues.
Through systematic waste collection, street cleaning, and the installation of public bins, the city has significantly improved its hygiene standards, providing residents with a healthier living environment.
Cotonou has also invested in modern infrastructure, such as the renovated international airport and the iconic Place de l’Amazone, which symbolize its transformation into a clean and vibrant city.
Abidjan: Striving for Progress
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire’s economic hub, ranked 13th with a score of 6.1 out of 10.
While it lags behind Cotonou in cleanliness, the city has made encouraging strides.
Abidjan’s overall global index score of 7.1—factoring in quality of life and economic appeal—surpasses Cotonou’s 6.0, highlighting its dynamic and competitive nature as a metropolis.
However, cleanliness remains an area requiring sustained focus.
Yaoundé: A Work in Progress
With a score of 4.4 out of 10, Yaoundé, Cameroon’s capital, ranks 26th on the list.
Waste management continues to pose significant challenges as urbanization and population growth outpace current initiatives.
Authorities in Yaoundé are implementing sanitation and urban development projects, which could lead to notable improvements in the coming years.
Kigali: Africa’s Gold Standard
At the top of the rankings, Kigali, Rwanda, remains unmatched with a stellar score of 9.5 out of 10.
Renowned for its pristine streets and world-class waste management systems, Kigali serves as a benchmark for cities across Africa striving for cleanliness and sustainability.
The report underscores the varying challenges and successes among African cities as they work to improve sanitation, infrastructure, and quality of life.
