Zimbabwe and Nigeria have been listed among the top 10 most difficult places to live in the world, according to the latest Global Liveability Index published by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
The ranking highlights the ongoing challenges faced by residents in major African cities, including economic instability, poor healthcare, and underdeveloped infrastructure.
The annual index evaluates cities across five key categories that shape quality of life: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure.
African cities, particularly in Zimbabwe and Nigeria, scored low due to persistent challenges such as high crime rates, political instability, poor public services, and limited access to quality education and transport networks.
According to the EIU, stability is assessed based on crime, civil unrest, and conflict threats; healthcare looks at the availability and quality of services; culture and environment considers climate, recreation, and freedoms; education evaluates access to schooling; and infrastructure measures roads, housing, transport, and connectivity.
In Zimbabwe, economic pressures, fuel shortages, and a struggling public healthcare system have continued to weigh down urban life. In Nigeria, rising insecurity, frequent power outages, and overstretched public services make daily life increasingly difficult.
The Global Liveability Index uses over 30 indicators to rank cities globally, offering a snapshot of how suitable a location is for living and working.
While African cities remain resilient and culturally vibrant, the report underscores the urgent need for improved governance and investment to raise living standards for millions across the continent
