The World Bank's annual Country Policy and Institutional Assessment (CPIA) report for Sub-Saharan Africa, released on July 10, 2025, highlights the need for African governments to enhance essential service delivery to foster inclusive and sustainable growth. The CPIA report evaluates policy and institutional reforms in IDA-eligible countries in Sub-Saharan Africa for 2024.
According to the report, the average CPIA score remained at 3.1 points out of 6, similar to 2023. While some regions showed strong reforms, poor governance performance offset these gains. Improvements were mainly seen in already well-performing countries.
The report emphasizes that African governments must mobilize resources to provide services amidst limited external financing. It serves as a guide for policymakers and investors by identifying specific reform actions needed for effective public service delivery.
Public discontent marked the year 2024 with youth protests and declining political support across the continent. Survey results indicated dissatisfaction with public services quality, particularly in infrastructure, human capital, security, and administrative capabilities.
"Confidence in a government's ability to efficiently transform public resources into essential services is fundamental to fostering a shared purpose with citizens and improving trust," said Andrew Dabalen, World Bank Chief Economist for Africa. "Populations across Africa are clearly asking for more from their leaders."
The report details significant shortfalls in various sectors such as infrastructure-related services like transport that hinder economic activity and quality of life. High poverty levels are exacerbated by lack of access to sanitation infrastructure. Human capital development is limited by poor educational quality and inadequate health services affecting citizens' well-being and earning prospects.
Despite challenges, some positive developments include improved fiscal discipline in many countries tackling high wage bills and fuel subsidies while making progress in debt consolidation. Efforts are also underway to implement trade facilitation agreements leverage digital technologies strengthen financial sector regulation empower adolescent girls through legal reforms strengthen social protection systems.
"While some countries have made commendable strides... issues of weak governance limited transparency insufficient implementation capacity continue undermining efforts," added Nicholas Woolley lead author of the CPIA report.
Contacts:
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In Washington: Caitlin Berczik +1 202-558-8662