According to the latest statistics by Data Pandas, South Africa ranks number two on the top 10 African countries with the highest homicide rate.
Homicides in Africa
In Africa, the narrative surrounding homicide reveals a mix of extremes. Nations such as South Africa, Nigeria, and the Central African Republic have some of the highest violent death rates, influenced by issues like gang violence, political turmoil, and lingering disputes.
In South Africa, major cities frequently make news due to gang-related murders and violent offenses, driven by economic inequality and deep-rooted problems. Nigeria faces various challenges, including terrorist groups, community conflicts, and increasing crime in urban areas. On the other hand, the Central African Republic is dealing with violence tied to ongoing armed struggles and ineffective governance.
Is there a difference between homicide and murder?
According to Hamilton Janke Lawyers, homicide is an umbrella term for any death caused by another person, whether intentional or unintentional.
Murder is a specific type of unlawful homicide with intent to kill or cause serious harm, or reckless indifference to human life.
Manslaughter involves the unintentional killing of another person, with voluntary and involuntary classifications.
Top 10 African countries with the highest homicide rate
| Rank | Country | Homicide rate (per 100 000 people) |
| 1 | Lesotho | 43,56 |
| 2 | South Africa | 36,40 |
| 3 | Nigeria | 34,52 |
| 4 | Central African Republic | 20,12 |
| 5 | Namibia | 17,68 |
| 6 | Botswana | 15,25 |
| 7 | South Sudan | 14,87 |
| 8 | Seychelles | 12,54 |
| 9 | Eswatini | 11,56 |
| 10 | Uganda | 10,52 |
Where does South Africa rank on the global stage?
In addition to having the most homicide cases in Africa, South Africa is also on the top 10 globally for one of the countries with the highest homicide incidents.
El Salvador leads the pack with a homicide rate of 52,02 per 100 000 people. Markedly, South Africa ranks in the 8th position with a homicide rate of 36,40 per 100 000 people.
Markedly, three African countries are in the top 10 global list.
Following are the top 10 countries worldwide with the highest homicide rate per 100 000 people:
1. El Salvador
2. Jamaica
3. Lesotho
4. Honduras
5. Belize
6. Venezuela
7. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
8. South Africa
9. Saint Kitts and Nevis
10. Nigeria
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