Kenya has been ranked among the top ten English-speaking countries in Africa, outperforming nations such as Nigeria, Uganda, Ethiopia, and Morocco, according to the 2025 EF English Proficiency Index. Globally, Kenya placed 19th.
The EF report, published by EF Education First, the world’s largest private education company specialising in language training, assessed English skills in 123 countries and regions.
The survey drew on data from over 2.2 million adults who completed the EF Skills Evaluation Technology test in 2024. Participants were 54 per cent female and 46 per cent male, with an average age of 26.
In Africa, South Africa topped the rankings, followed by Zimbabwe in second place.
Kenya claimed third position, ahead of Zambia. Nigeria, Ghana, and Uganda placed fifth, sixth, and seventh, while Ethiopia, Tunisia, and Morocco rounded out the continent’s top ten.
The report attributes high proficiency in these countries to the widespread use of English in government, education, and media.
Kenya’s strong performance is linked to its historical and institutional use of English.
As a former British colony, English has been established as an official language and continues to play a central role in education, governance, and public communication.
The EF report also highlights the economic importance of English proficiency, noting that strong language skills support a country’s participation in the global economy and reflect a workforce’s readiness to meet international standards, particularly in knowledge-based industries.
Globally, the Netherlands ranked first, followed by Croatia, Australia, and Germany. Other countries in the top ten included Norway, Portugal, Denmark, Sweden, Belgium, and Slovakia.
Kenya’s position at 19th now shows its growing competitiveness and the significance of English fluency in international engagement.