Nairobi ranked among top emerging cities globally in new attractiveness ranking

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Nairobi has been ranked 56th out of 80 emerging and fast-growing cities worldwide in the new Global Attractiveness Index for Emerging and Fast-Growing Cities (GAI).

The index, developed by DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa in partnership with The European House - Ambrosetti, provides a data-driven assessment of cities based on their ability to attract and retain resources across four key dimensions; economy, environment, social conditions and urban infrastructure.

According to the report released on Monday, March 23, 2026, Nairobi ranks 11th in Africa and 6th in Sub-Saharan Africa. The findings highlight the Kenyan capital’s growing economic and environmental performance, while also pointing to structural challenges that continue to limit its competitiveness.

Nairobi performs strongly in the Economic and Environmental indices, ranking 39th and 35th globally respectively. The city scored well on environmental indicators such as air quality and access to basic drinking water.

However, the report shows Nairobi faces significant social and infrastructure challenges. The city ranks 73rd in the Social Index, largely due to gaps in sanitation access and the high number of residents living in informal settlements.

Nairobi is also ranked 65th in the Urban Infrastructure Index, with digital connectivity and sewerage systems identified as key areas requiring improvement.

Across Africa, the index shows varied performance among cities. Johannesburg is the top-ranked African city, placing 13th globally due to its strong economic and infrastructure performance.

Port Louis ranks 19th globally and second in Sub-Saharan Africa, while Gaborone is ranked 37th globally and third in the region. Praia ranks 41st globally and fourth in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The report notes that cities improve their attractiveness when they strengthen conditions that make it easier for businesses to operate and expand. These include improving digital connectivity, enhancing transport systems and basic services, supporting small and medium enterprises, and reducing administrative barriers that slow investment and innovation.

CEO of DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa, Hennie Heymans, said understanding the strengths and challenges facing African cities is key to unlocking the continent’s economic potential.

“For Africa to accelerate its integration into global trade and to realize its full economic potential, we must understand where our cities stand, what their unique strengths are, and what barriers must be removed to allow them to develop. The GAI gives us a clear, data-backed roadmap,” he said.

Heymans noted that Africa’s urban future will depend on how well cities balance economic growth with social inclusion and reliable infrastructure.

“Africa is not short of ambition or talent. What we need now is coordinated investment, public and private, in the systems that allow cities to scale sustainably,” he said.

CEO of The European House - Ambrosetti Africa, Pietro Maninni, said the index provides important guidance for policymakers and investors seeking to improve the competitiveness of African cities.

“The GAI provides an important evidence base for policymakers, investors and business leaders. With the right reforms, digital acceleration, inclusive housing strategies, green infrastructure and modernised urban services, African cities can shift quickly into higher tiers of global competitiveness,” he said.