Top 5 African cities with severe traffic at the start of 2025

Traffic congestion in African cities disrupts daily life, hampers business operations, and stifles economic growth. Long commutes drain productivity, increase fuel costs, and worsen air pollution, impacting public health and the environment.

To combat this, cities are investing in public transport, expanding road networks, and adopting smart traffic systems.

Alternatives like cycling, walking, and carpooling are also being promoted. Governments and urban planners are prioritising sustainable solutions to improve mobility, reduce emissions, and unlock the economic potential of rapidly growing urban centres.

Read also: Top 10 African cities with the highest crime rates in early 2025

According to Numbeo, here are the top 5 African cities with severe traffic at the start of 2025

1. Lagos, Nigeria — Traffic index: 365.9

Lagos records the highest traffic congestion globally. Commuters spend an average of 70 minutes in traffic daily. The city’s rapid urbanisation, high population density, and limited road infrastructure contribute to the gridlock. Public transport systems struggle to meet demand, and alternative transport solutions remain underdeveloped. Road expansion projects and traffic management initiatives have yet to ease the congestion.

2. Nairobi, Kenya — Traffic index: 249.0

Nairobi ranks second in Africa, daily travel within the city takes an average of 52.7 minutes. The expansion of major roads has not kept up with the increasing number of vehicles. The reliance on matatus, boda-bodas, and personal cars contributes to frequent bottlenecks. Urban planning challenges and the slow adoption of mass transit systems add to the congestion.

Read also: 10 African countries with high crime rates in 2025

3. Cairo, Egypt — Traffic index: 242.1

Cairo remains one of the most congested cities in Africa. On average, residents spend 49.9 minutes in traffic daily. The city’s high vehicle density and outdated road networks contribute to delays. Public transport options, including the metro and buses, provide some relief, but demand exceeds capacity. Road expansions and traffic laws aim to improve movement, but congestion remains high.

4. Pretoria, South Africa —Traffic index: 226.1

Pretoria ranks fourth, commuters spend an average of 44.9 minutes in traffic daily. The reliance on private cars and taxis leads to road congestion. Infrastructure development has not matched population growth, resulting in prolonged travel times. Plans for better road networks and improved public transport services are in progress to address the issue.

Read also: Africa’s top 10 cities with the most alarming crime rates 

5. Cape Town, South Africa — Traffic index: 208.2

Cape Town ranks fifth in Africa for traffic congestion. Residents spend an average of 44.7 minutes in traffic daily. The city’s road network struggles to handle the increasing number of vehicles. Limited public transport options contribute to congestion. Roadworks and urban development projects seek to improve traffic conditions, but the impact remains minimal.