In many of Africa’s fastest-growing cities, the daily commute has become more than just a routine, it is a test of endurance.
- +FULL LIST: Lagos tops Africa’s 10 most congested cities in 2026 traffic report
At the top of the ranking is Lagos, which stands out as the most congested city in Africa.
At the top of the ranking is Lagos, which stands out as the most congested city in Africa.
With a Traffic Index of 348.5 and an average one-way commute of about 68 minutes, the city reflects the extreme pressure placed on road networks by rapid population growth, commercial activity, and limited transport infrastructure. For many residents, significant portions of the day are lost in traffic before work even begins.
According to the latest Numbeo Traffic Index (March 2026) cited by PUNCH Online on Saturday, congestion across major urban centres continues to intensify, with several cities now recording commute times that stretch close to or beyond an hour for a single trip.
Traffic Index: 147.4 Average commute: 33.9 minutes Moderate congestion, but still impactful for a mid-sized port city.
Traffic Index: 153.8 Average commute: 37.0 minutes Steady congestion typical of a capital and administrative hub.
Traffic Index: 181.0 Average commute: ~44 minutes Heavy movement is tied to its role as Morocco’s main business and port city.
Traffic Index: 199.4 Average commute: 44.3 minutes Strong pressure along coastal trade and industrial corridors.
Traffic Index: 200.7 Average commute: 40.7 minutes Major financial hub with intense commuter inflows.
Traffic Index: 207.9 Average commute: 42.4 minutes Geography (mountains + coastline) restricts road expansion and concentrates traffic.
Traffic Index: 219.9 Average commute: 43.7 minutes Part of the Gauteng metro system with heavy intercity commuting pressure.
Traffic Index: 240.9 Average commute: 49.6 minutes One of the world’s largest metro areas has severe inefficiency in road movement.
Traffic Index: 253.5 Average commute: 53.7 minutes Long commutes reflect rapid growth outpacing road infrastructure.
Traffic Index: 348.5 Average commute: 68.3 minutes The most congested city in the ranking, with extreme delays and inefficiency dominating daily travel.
