Kenya has been ranked 98th out of 120 countries in the 2025 Chandler Good Government Index (CGGI), a comprehensive global measure of government effectiveness. The index evaluates 35 indicators grouped into seven pillars, focusing on both state capabilities and outcomes for citizens, with a central theme of whether governments are structured to “help people rise.”
Kenya’s performance highlights persistent governance challenges. The country scored lowest in the Leadership and Foresight pillar, ranking 111th. This indicator assesses a government’s ethical leadership, long-term planning, adaptability, and capacity for innovation areas where Kenya continues to lag. Similarly, in the Strong Institutions category, which examines bureaucratic quality, coordination, and data capability, Kenya ranked 102nd.
In the Marketplace pillar, which measures how effectively a country supports investment, property rights, infrastructure, and regulatory stability, Kenya placed 101st. Meanwhile, in Outcomes for Citizens reflecting delivery of key services such as healthcare, education, environmental protection, and income equality the country ranked 95th.
Kenya fared slightly better in Legal and Regulatory Governance (96th) and Global Influence and Reputation (93rd). Its strongest performance came in Financial Stewardship, where it was ranked 85th. This suggests relative success in managing debt, public spending, and budgets compared to other African peers.
Across Africa, the report shows a mixed picture. The continent remains the lowest-scoring region overall, with only Rwanda and Tanzania improving their positions since 2021. Kenya’s decline reflects broader governance stagnation. Regionally, Mauritius led Africa at 51st globally, followed by Rwanda (63rd), Botswana (66th), Morocco (75th), and South Africa (77th). Tanzania (78th), Ghana (89th), and Côte d’Ivoire (93rd) all ranked higher than Kenya.
Globally, Singapore retained the top spot, excelling in leadership, digital governance, and institutional strength, followed by Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Sweden.
Kenya’s position below many of its regional peers underscores the urgency of governance reforms. Strengthening ethical leadership, building resilient institutions, and fostering innovation remain critical if the country is to improve its standing and deliver more effectively for its citizens.
