In the quest to attract global attention and investment, city branding has become crucial for African nations. According to the Brand Finance Global City Index, five African cities have made it to the top ranks for brand value in 2024.

The index evaluates 45 factors across seven pillars of a city's brand, including Business & Investment, Livability, Culture & Heritage, People & Values, Sustainability & Transport, Governance, and Education & Science. London leads the list this year, scoring an impressive 90.9 out of 100.

The top 5 African cities with the strongest brand value in 2024 are Cape Town, Johannesburg, Casablanca, Nairobi, and Lagos. These cities have successfully built brands that capture their identity, values, and public perception, making them magnets for tourism, investment, and talent. This boost also attracts businesses and economic opportunities, sparking local entrepreneurship and creating jobs that draw in global talent.

For startups and entrepreneurs, understanding the brand value of these cities can provide valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges of doing business in Africa. As the continent continues to evolve, city branding will play an increasingly important role in shaping the economic landscape.