By Baafi Sarah
Nigeria has surpassed Ghana in the 2025 EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI), claiming a higher position among Africa’s English-speaking nations despite Ghana’s solid performance in the continent’s proficiency rankings.
Ghana secured 6th place in Africa and 36th globally across 123 countries and regions in the EF EPI, a comprehensive worldwide evaluation of adult English skills. Published by Education First (EF), the index draws from 2.2 million test takers using the EF Skills Evaluation Technology (EF SET), recognised as the largest free standardised English test globally.
“English remains the world’s most widely shared language for international communication. In a time of growing global complexity, its role as a common bridge between cultures, economies, and ideas is more important than ever,” stated Kate Bell, EF EPI author and Head of Assessment.
Ghana’s Linguistic Strength
Ghana’s robust ranking stems from English serving as the official language and primary medium of instruction across primary to tertiary levels. The language dominates public administration, judiciary, media, diplomacy, and commerce, acting as a vital unifier in a multilingual nation.
The 2025 EF EPI report introduced first-time assessments of speaking and writing skills through AI technology from Efekta Education Group, EF’s edtech division, showcasing Ghana’s comprehensive English proficiency beyond reading and listening.
Top 10 English-speaking countries in Africa (EF EPI 2025)
-South Africa – 1st Africa, 13th global
– Zimbabwe – 2nd Africa
– Kenya – 3rd Africa, 19th global
– Zambia – 4th Africa, 27th global
– Nigeria – 5th Africa, 29th global
– Ghana – 6th Africa, 36th global
– Uganda
– Ethiopia
– Tunisia
– Morocco
Ghana’s steady top-tier African ranking strengthen its status as a West African centre for education, media, diplomacy, business, and outsourcing amid rising global English demand.
