If you're considering working in Africa or simply curious about labour standards across the continent, knowing which countries offer the highest minimum wage can be quite enlightening.
Here's a rundown of the African countries that boast the highest minimum wage rates:
Seychelles
Minimum wage: $426
Seychelles, an idyllic island nation off the coast of East Africa, takes the top spot with the highest minimum wage in Africa. With a thriving tourism industry and impressive GDP per capita, Seychelles sets the bar high for labour standards.
Morocco
Minimum wage: $360
Morocco follows closely with its second-place minimum wage of $360. The country's diverse economy spans sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and mining, making it a prominent employment hub.
Libya
Minimum wage: $325
Libya holds the third spot with a minimum wage of $325. The country's labour industry has stable laws, though some concerns about discrimination and unequal treatment have been raised.
Gabon
Minimum wage: $255
Gabon's minimum wage of $255 lands it in fourth place. Despite having a solid labour industry, there are instances where labour laws are not enforced, leading to discrepancies in wages and working conditions.
Mauritius
Minimum wage: $251
Mauritius boasts a flexible labour sector and stands as a significant player in finance and tourism. With a population of over a million people, it offers various employment opportunities.
South Africa
Minimum wage: $242
As the sixth highest-paying country on the continent, South Africa emphasises equality in labour laws, moving beyond its history of apartheid to establish a fairer open economy.
Equatorial Guinea
Minimum wage: $200
Equatorial Guinea ranks seventh with its minimum wage of $200. However, the country's labour laws have been criticised for being dictatorial and limiting workers' rights.
Djibouti
Minimum wage: $198
Djibouti stands out with a unique approach to minimum wage, where employers and employees negotiate wages as part of employment contracts. The public sector maintains a minimum wage of approximately $198 per month.
Kenya
Minimum wage: $178
Kenya, the largest economy in East Africa, is known for its skilled labour force and thriving financial centres. With a minimum wage of $178, it offers competitive compensation within the region.
Egypt
Minimum wage: $172
Egypt secures its place with a legal monthly minimum wage of $172. The country's business centres, including Cairo and Alexandria, contribute to its economic stability.