Crime risks, country by country (Africa)
Crime risk across Africa varies widely by country and city. Some destinations are relatively safe for travellers, while others experience higher levels of violent crime and theft.
Intentional homicide rates (context indicator)
Rates shown are intentional homicides per 100,000 population. City-level data is often unavailable or unreliable; national rates provide context only.
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| Country | Homicide rate (per 100,000) |
|---|---|
| Lesotho | ~43 |
| South Africa | ~36 |
| Nigeria | ~34 |
| Kenya | ~22 |
| Uganda | ~11 |
| Ghana | ~10 |
| Zimbabwe | ~8 |
| Ethiopia | ~7 |
| Egypt | ~3 |
| Morocco | ~2 |
| Tunisia | ~2 |
| Senegal | ~1 |
Violent crime
- Highly variable by country and city.
- Firearm-related violence is concentrated in specific regions.
- Risk is higher at night and in poorly lit areas.
Theft and property crime
- Pickpocketing and phone theft are common in busy urban areas.
- Bag snatching near markets and transport hubs.
- Hotel and vehicle break-ins reported in some cities.
Kidnapping and unrest
- Kidnapping risk exists in parts of the Sahel and northern Nigeria.
- Political protests can escalate rapidly; monitor local advice.
Traveller safety guidance
- Avoid walking alone at night.
- Use hotel-arranged or app-based transport where available.
- Avoid displaying valuables.
- Follow local security guidance and no-go area advice.
Data transparency:Reporting is uneven. National homicide rates are provided for context and do not predict individual traveller risk.