Egypt Stands Out as Africa’s Only Representative in Americans’ Most Favoured Countries Ranking
Egypt has secured a notable position on Gallup’s 2026 list of countries viewed most favourably by Americans, emerging as the only African nation among the 21 countries featured in the prestigious global ranking. The North African nation recorded a 59% favourable rating, placing 11th overall and reinforcing its status as one of Africa’s most influential diplomatic and strategic partners on the world stage.
The annual Gallup World Affairs survey, conducted among 1,001 American adults between February 2 and February 16, measured public perceptions of nations across the globe during a period marked by significant geopolitical developments, shifting alliances and growing international tensions. Egypt’s inclusion highlights its enduring relationship with the United States and its importance in regional and global affairs.
While Egypt celebrated its place among the countries viewed positively by most Americans, major African economies including South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya were absent from the rankings. The exclusion of these nations is particularly notable given their economic significance, diplomatic influence and longstanding relationships with the United States.
Egypt’s strong showing reflects decades of close cooperation with Washington in areas such as security, diplomacy and regional stability. The country continues to play a pivotal role in Middle Eastern peace efforts and conflict mediation, while its stewardship of the Suez Canal, one of the world’s busiest and most strategically important maritime routes, further strengthens its global standing.
The favourable rating was also supported by positive perceptions among Republican respondents, whose foreign policy preferences have largely aligned with the administration of President Donald Trump. Analysts suggest that Egypt’s strategic importance and consistent diplomatic engagement have helped sustain favourable views among Americans across different political groups.
The survey was conducted against the backdrop of several international developments, including global economic discussions at the World Economic Forum in Davos and ongoing diplomatic debates involving key U.S. allies and partners. Relations between Washington and Pretoria, for example, have experienced tensions over land reform policies, South Africa’s legal action against Israel at the International Court of Justice, and immigration-related disputes.
Similarly, Nigeria and the United States have faced occasional disagreements regarding security cooperation, religious violence and sovereignty concerns. In Kenya, a recently signed health cooperation agreement with Washington attracted legal scrutiny after concerns were raised over data privacy, public participation and financial obligations.
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Despite these challenges, all three countries continue to maintain strong economic, diplomatic and security partnerships with the United States. Their absence from this year’s rankings underscores the complex nature of international perceptions and the evolving factors that shape public opinion.
Globally, Japan claimed the top position with an impressive 85% favourable rating, narrowly surpassing Italy, which received 84%. Canada and Denmark followed with 80%, while France and Great Britain each secured 76%. Germany rounded out the upper tier with a 75% approval rating among Americans surveyed.
Further down the rankings, Mexico earned 66%, Ukraine received 63%, India recorded 61%, and Egypt followed closely with 59%. At the opposite end of the spectrum, North Korea and Iran each registered just 13% favourable ratings, while Russia and Iraq received 17% and 21% respectively.
The report also highlighted shifting attitudes toward some of America’s traditional allies. Canada and Great Britain, while still highly regarded, recorded their lowest favourable ratings on record. Analysts attribute much of the decline to Republican respondents amid disagreements over trade policies, tariffs, NATO commitments and controversial political statements involving Canada.
Meanwhile, China experienced a notable improvement in its public perception among Americans, achieving a 34% favourable rating, more than double its historic low of 15% recorded in 2023. Gallup attributed the increase largely to more positive views among Democrats and independent voters.
As global political and economic dynamics continue to evolve, Egypt’s position as the only African nation on Gallup’s list serves as a testament to its enduring strategic relevance and diplomatic influence. The ranking reinforces the country’s standing as a key partner in international affairs and highlights its unique role in strengthening ties between Africa, the Middle East and the United States.
