10 African countries where groceries are least affordable in 2025

At the start of 2025, grocery prices continue to rise across Africa, affecting household budgets and financial stability. The affordability of food varies by country, influencing living standards, nutrition, and economic well-being.

Higher food prices limit access to essential goods, increasing the risk of food insecurity. Low-income households, which allocate a significant portion of their income to food, are disproportionately affected. Rising costs force families to reduce meal quality and frequency, affecting health and overall welfare.

Governments face pressure to address inflation, improve food production, and enhance supply chain efficiency. In countries dependent on food imports, increasing global prices contribute to trade deficits, currency depreciation, and inflation.

Consumers are adapting by seeking cost-effective alternatives and adjusting spending habits. Policymakers may consider food subsidies or other measures to stabilise prices, as high grocery costs pose risks to both social stability and economic growth.

Read also: Top 10 African countries with the most affordable food prices in 2025

According to data from Numbeo, 10 African countries where groceries are least affordable in 2025

1. Ethiopia

Ethiopia ranks first, with a grocery index of 46.5. The high cost of food items in the country is influenced by multiple factors, including inflation, supply chain disruptions, and exchange rate fluctuations. Households continue to allocate a significant portion of their income to food expenses, making daily sustenance a challenge for many.

2. Mauritius

Mauritius follows with a grocery index of 39.1. The island nation relies heavily on food imports, which increases grocery prices. External economic factors, including global trade disruptions and currency exchange rates, contribute to the rising costs, affecting consumers and businesses alike.

Read also: Top 10 African countries expected to maintain low inflation in 2025

3. Cameroon

Cameroon ranks third with a grocery index of 34.7. Price increases are driven by logistical challenges, inflation, and external trade dependencies. The cost of staple foods continues to rise, straining household budgets.

4. Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast follows closely with a grocery index of 34.6. Economic factors, including import reliance and supply chain constraints, contribute to the high cost of groceries. Many families struggle to afford nutritious food options.

Read also: Top 5 cities in Africa with lowest cost of living in 2025

5. Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe, with a grocery index of 33.9, continues to face economic difficulties, affecting the affordability of food. The country’s currency instability and inflation contribute to high grocery prices, making it difficult for many households to afford basic food supplies.

6. Mozambique

Mozambique faces rising food costs, with a grocery index of 33.6. The country’s economy and trade challenges play a significant role in grocery affordability, impacting consumers at all income levels.

Read also: Top 10 African countries with projected inflation surges in 2025

7. Ghana

Ghana ranks seventh with a grocery index of 33.3. Food price fluctuations in the country stem from economic pressures, supply chain disruptions, and currency depreciation. These factors impact household budgets, limiting access to essential food items.

8. Algeria

Algeria, with a grocery index of 33.2, experiences high grocery costs due to inflation and import dependencies. Many households face increased expenses on basic food products.

Read also: Top 10 African countries with the lowest GDP projections for 2025

9. Nigeria

Nigeria ranks ninth with a grocery index of 31.8. Import costs, inflation, and supply chain issues contribute to rising prices. Many households struggle to keep up with the cost of living, as food expenses consume a substantial portion of earnings.

10. Namibia

Namibia rounds out the list with a grocery index of 31.3. The country faces similar challenges related to food imports and economic conditions. Rising costs place pressure on households, especially those with lower incomes.