Often described as the “nerves” of an economy, roads are far more than stretches of tarmac—they are critical enablers of commerce, connectivity and national development.
- Roads are vital for economic growth, enabling the movement of people, goods, and services, and forming the backbone of daily life and commerce.
- Over 80% of goods and 90% of passenger movement in Africa rely on roads, yet the continent faces significant infrastructure gaps in road quality and connectivity.
- Poor road infrastructure increases transaction costs, delays trade logistics, and contributes to Africa’s low intra-continental trade rate of 18%.
By facilitating the seamless movement of people, goods and services, roads form the core of any thriving economy.
Whether it’s transporting produce from farm to market, getting workers to factories, students to classrooms or ambulances to hospitals, road infrastructure is an indispensable pillar of daily life.
Across the African continent, roads serve as the dominant mode of transport. An estimated 80% of goods and 90% of passenger traffic in Africa rely on roads, underscoring their immense significance. Yet, despite this reliance, Africa suffers from a major infrastructure shortfall.
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Many existing road networks are underdeveloped, poorly maintained, or entirely absent in remote regions. This lack of reliable road infrastructure contributes directly to higher transaction costs, delays in trade logistics, and ultimately, the low intra-African trade rate, which remains at only 18%—a stark contrast to regions like Europe or Asia, where internal trade is far more robust.
Bridging the Infrastructure Gap
Recognising the economic losses tied to poor roads, several African countries are ramping up investments in road infrastructure. Governments and regional bodies are now prioritising strategic projects to extend and modernise their networks. The aim is clear: better roads mean better access to markets, enhanced mobility, reduced transport costs, and increased job opportunities—particularly in rural areas where isolation from major markets stifles development.
These road projects are also critical to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which hinges on connectivity to unlock the continent’s full trade potential.
South Africa leads the continent, boasting a highly developed and expansive road system, reflecting its status as one of Africa’s most industrialised economies. Nigeria, with its vast population and economic might, ranks second, while Kenya’s growing infrastructure reflects its rising status as East Africa’s economic hub.
Below are the top 10 African countries with the longest road networks:
| Rank | Country | Roadway coverage in kilometres |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | South Africa | 750,000km |
| 2 | Nigeria | 195,000km |
| 3 | Ethiopia | 161,452km |
| 4 | Kenya | 161,000 km |
| 5 | Democratic Republic Of The Congo | 152,000 km |
| 6 | Tanzania | 145,000 km |
| 7 | Algeria | 141,000 km |
| 8 | Mali | 139,000 km |
| 9 | Zimbabwe | 97,000 km |
| 10 | South Sudan | 90,000 km |
Conclusion
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In the journey towards a more integrated and prosperous Africa, roads are not just paths—they are promises. A well-connected Africa is a more competitive Africa. As countries invest in building and modernising road networks, they are laying down more than asphalt—they are laying the groundwork for economic transformation, regional unity, and a better future for generations to come.
