Ever since the colonial period, the African continent has emerged as a bedrock of cultures and commercial activities. It’s a next-generation hub for technology, business innovation, and urban regeneration. Africa has flourished in examining all the laws of indices and now boasts of a population of over 1 billion people. Research and statistics predict that it will be home to 40% of the planet’s kids by 2050.

We can say with no doubts that it’s a ripple effect of the crazy creative scene sprawling across the continent, even when municipal governments fail at providing basic human amenities and infrastructure that foster more interactions.

Africa is also leveraging on its distinct nature from wildlife parks in South Africa, the safaris in Kenya, pyramids in Egypt and the deserts of the north.

If you aren’t walking out a masterclass on Co-Creation Hub’s sixth floor in Lagos, then you might be in Johannesburg for the Capsule Fest, the luxury skyscrapers filtered around Angola or Chalewote in Accra.

This a quick rundown of our list on Africa’s most commercial cities in no particular order:

Tunis.

The capital of Tunisia is known for its good healthcare services and a high number of graduate enrollment. Thanks to two main rivers and a flatter rain, there is an active sector for specialized agriculture particularly Wine and Olive oil. The city is a growing financial base and is the top placement on the continent for human capital.

Cairo.

The capital of Egypt and the largest city in the Middle East. The city accounts for 11% of Egypt’s population and comes across as the busiest place for business. A major bulk of the country’s commerce is generated and refueled back here. It also has a significant international presence due to its strategic placement in the Middle East, allowing good volume of investments in the city. It’s downside however is the growth of the city has not been adequately matched by public services and infrastructure, also not forgetting the ongoing political turmoil in the country.

Johannesburg.

The largest city in South Africa and one of the leading economic centres in the world. Jo’burg boasts of a heavy international presence and its credentials as an investment and technological hub is of no question.

Construction and mining sites are some of the gems this beautiful city sets on display. It is also the seat of the principal government. However, the city isn’t without a bad side; high crime rate, stagnant middle class and an increasing population are some of the contributors.

Casablanca.

The largest city and power engine of

Morocco, it attracts 32% of the production units. Here, industries thrive across Fishing, sawmills, furniture production, textiles and others. The city is also concentrated with 30% of the country’s banking network.

Algiers.

Algiers, capital of Algeria stands as an important economic and commercial region on the continent. It’s low crime rate makes it safe for investors and visitors. The city brags of an excellent educational system with a high turnout of

graduates yearly. Good healthcare services but a stagnant middle class.

Accra.

The Ghanaian capital and a delight for tourists and investors. The city stands as a large and diverse pool for businesses to strive. From fishing and urban agriculture to real estate and nightlife, Accra is surely a destination for warmth seekers. The bad side? Infrastructure and health services.

Nairobi.

Nairobi is the capital of Kenya and one of the African cities with international presence. The beautiful city is also a financial and technological powerhouse. The region is home to continental quarters of multinationals such as Google, IBM, Airtel, Cisco and more. Nairobi is a haven for recreation. Textiles, Beverages & Cigarettes are manufactured here. There’s room for improvement in healthcare, education and infrastructure.

Lagos.

Popularly known as the African mega city, EKO (native name) is home to over 20 million people. Skyscrapers, Slums, Hotels, Markets, Malls & hubs; Lagos has proven itself as an amusement park for administrative, educational, urban, commercial and technological activities. The city also has the potential to become Africa’s ICT centre with Yaba, a prime district being home to majority of tech startups and developers. Everyday, Lagos port is busy importing or exporting. There’s also a vibrant nightlife on this side, one that can pass as Africa’s largest. Restaurants, Art galleries, coworking spaces, bars, events etc. The city’s major problem is congestion, inefficient traffic system and electricity. It’s also one of the most expensive cities in the world to live in.

Addis Ababa.

The capital of Ethiopia is a city in love with business opportunities. Here, hotels, catering services, Animal husbandry are cultures. It is a clean and safe city with low crime rate. There is also a reconstruction boom with high rise in luxury buildings dominating the city. Some people labeled it the capital of Africa but oh well, probably because it is headquarters of the African Union. There’s not so much of foreign investments and there’s low level of literacy.