Identifying priorities for advancing SDGs in Africa

Africa faces enormous challenges in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with only 6% of measurable targets currently on track. Identifying priorities is a fundamental prerequisite for achieving the SDGs. Here, we compiled a comprehensive time-series database covering SDG indicators for 41 African countries. By integrating network analysis with Granger causality analysis, we identified the most influential SDGs across the continent. We found that Africa's progress toward the SDGs has slowed since the adoption of the 2030 Agenda. Prioritizing SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) generated the strongest positive spillover effects across the SDG network. Countries with relatively low performance on SDG 9 and stronger governance capacity derived greater benefits from advancing this goal. These findings suggest that, for most African countries, prioritizing the advancement of SDG 9 yields the highest returns for overall SDG progress. This study not only provides evidence-based guidance for accelerating Africa's progress toward the SDGs but also offers a valuable reference point for other regions facing comparable development challenges.