Top 10 African cities with the highest crime index mid-2024

While crime is a problem in many parts of Africa, it is particularly severe in certain cities.

Crime is a worldwide problem, affecting countries and cities across the globe. However, Africa faces unique challenges that complicate the issue.

The continent has a thriving young population, but this demographic advantage is often overshadowed by socio-economic challenges such as unemployment, inflation, and high living costs.

These issues, coupled with poverty and economic inequality, create conditions where individuals may turn to illicit activities as a means of survival.

While crime is a problem in many parts of Africa, it is particularly severe in certain cities. Urban areas tend to have higher crime rates compared to rural or suburban regions, and this can be attributed to the dense population, higher levels of poverty, and the presence of organized crime syndicates.

For example, some cities in South Africa, such as Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town, are known for their high crime rates. Issues related to drugs, kidnappings, and violent crimes are prevalent in these areas.

According to Numbeo's updated crime index report, six South African cities are among the top 10 cities with the highest crime index in mid-2024.

Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, has the highest crime index on the continent with a score of 82.5. Pretoria and Johannesburg follow closely, with index scores of 81.9 and 80.8, respectively.

Lagos, in Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, ranks seventh on the list.

Below are the top 10 African cities with the highest crime index mid-2024: