2023 highest minimum wage in Africa by countries

Ima Elijah 12:31 - 16 August 2023

A street money changer counts South African Rands in Harare, Zimbabwe, May 5, 2016. REUTERS/Philimon Bulawayo

If you're considering working in Africa or simply curious about labour standards across the continent, knowing which countries offer the highest minimum wages can be quite enlightening.

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

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

Rabat, Morocco

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

Tripoli, Libya

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

Libreville Gabon

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

Port Louis, Capital of Mauritius

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

Cape Town, South Africa

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

Rio Campo, Equatorial Guinea

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 City, Djibouti. (Africa)

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 is not only known for its wildlife [Forbes]

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

Four Seasons Resort, Egypt

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.