South Africa has just earned the title of the “World’s Friendliest Nation”, showcasing warmth, hospitality, and inclusivity that transcend borders.
Global (03 June 2024) – We’ve always known there was something special about South Africa… but now the rest of the world knows it too.
In a feel-good global survey conducted by Remitly, a financial services company that helps people send money back home, South Africa has officially been crowned the friendliest country on Earth. More than 3,000 people from 27 different countries were asked a series of personality questions (based on a simplified version of the Big Five Personality Test) and the results were tallied to measure which country’s citizens scored highest in “agreeableness” (a fancy way of saying empathy, kindness, cooperation and general human warmth).
And who came out on top?
Us. Mzansi. South Africa.
With a sky-high friendliness score of 34.63 out of 40, we didn’t just win, we won by being exactly who we are: a nation of people who greet strangers like friends, laugh loudly (even when things are tough) and keep showing up for one another.
But what makes South Africa really the friendliest?
It’s not just the smiles or the small talk in the supermarket aisles. It’s the stories we tell, the way we share food, the way we make space at the table. It’s that deep-rooted ubuntu. The belief that “I am because we are.”
But that’s our version… here’s what Remitly had to say:
“South Africans are renowned for their warmth and welcoming nature. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, expect to be greeted with genuine kindness wherever you go. It’s not uncommon to strike up a conversation with a stranger on the street or share a laugh over a joke. With eleven official languages spoken in the country, including English, IsiZulu, and Afrikaans, communication is never a barrier, fostering a sense of inclusivity and camaraderie.”
“One of the standout features of South African life is its affordability. The South African rand stretches further, offering a higher standard of living without breaking the bank. From housing to everyday expenses, residents enjoy a comfortable lifestyle that allows them to embrace the joys of community and connection.”
“In addition to its welcoming spirit, South Africa boasts a diverse cultural tapestry that enriches its social landscape. Whether you’re savouring traditional cuisine, immersing yourself in vibrant festivals, or exploring the arts and crafts of local artisans, there’s always something new to discover and celebrate.”
But let’s be honest, what makes us the friendliest nation isn’t about stats or studies. It’s about how we feel. It’s about chatting with your Uber driver like you’ve been friends for years. It’s about standing together in load shedding queues, finding humour in the chaos. It’s aunties offering advice you didn’t ask for (but secretly needed).
This title isn’t just something to celebrate, it’s something to carry with pride.
When life can feel fast, disconnected, or divided, being friendly becomes an act of quiet rebellion. It’s powerful. And it reminds us that the little things, a wave, a warm welcome, a moment of understanding, are the things that stitch the world back together.
As Madiba once said, “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”
South Africans rise with kindness. With grit. With that unmistakable laugh. We rise for each other. And we rise for anyone who calls this place home.
So yes, South Africa is the friendliest country on Earth.
And if you’ve ever been lucky enough to experience our kind of kindness, you’ll know: it’s more than just a feeling. It’s a way of life.
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