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Absa Africa Financial
Markets Index 2026

AFMI 2026

As the 10th edition of the Absa Africa Financial Markets Index (AFMI), the 2026 report marks a decade of tracking the development of financial markets across Africa. Over the past 10 years, AFMI has become a leading benchmark for assessing financial market development across 29 African countries, measuring progress in market accessibility, openness and transparency. Developed in partnership with OMFIF and supported by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), AFMI provides investors, policymakers and market participants with valuable insights into the evolution of Africa's financial markets. 

The 2026 report examines the key trends shaping Africa's financial landscape and assesses progress made across the continent over the past 12 months. As a milestone edition, it also reflects on a decade of transformation, highlighting the countries that have made the most significant advances in strengthening and deepening their financial markets. 

The Absa Africa Financial Markets Index 2025 benchmarks 29 economies representing 80% of Africa’s GDP, assessing market depth, transparency, and sustainability. Now in its ninth year, the Index tracks progress in ESG integration, digital finance, and market reform—highlighting how African economies are advancing toward stronger, more connected financial systems.

This year's report explores 

  • Diversification of financial products 
  • Adoption of environmental, social and governance (ESG) frameworks 
  • Advances in digital innovation 
  • Efforts to strengthen legal and regulatory systems 
  • A decade of financial market development across Africa and the progress achieved since AFMI was first launched 

Meet the team

Anthony-Kirui

Anthony Kirui

Head of Global Markets, Africa Regional Operations, Absa

Jeff-Gable

Jeff Gable

Head of Macro and Fixed Income Research, Absa

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