Chad has emerged as the African nation with the highest levels of worker stress, highlighting a continent-wide issue exacerbated by economic instability and social challenges. This finding is part of a broader report by Gallup, revealing a staggering 58% of workers in Chad are experiencing significant stress.
The Global Stress Epidemic
Despite improvements in other negative feelings associated with the pandemic, stress remains a persistent problem for employees worldwide, especially in Africa. Economic uncertainties, inflation rates, and debt burdens are major contributors to this sustained stress.
Indermit Gill, the World Bank’s chief economist, warned of a potential “lost decade” for the global economy. “The ongoing decline in potential growth has serious implications for the world’s ability to tackle the expanding array of challenges unique to our times: stubborn poverty, diverging incomes, and climate change,” said Gill.
Impact on Global Economy
Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace 2023 Report estimates that low engagement costs the global economy $8.8 trillion, accounting for 9% of global GDP. This figure underscores the critical role of engagement in determining global success or failure. Ineffective management not only results in financial losses but also adversely affects employee well-being.
Top 10 African Countries with Highest Worker Stress Rates
- Chad — 58%
- Economic instability and social challenges significantly contribute to the high stress levels among workers in Chad.
- Uganda — 57%
- The economic fallout from the pandemic has exacerbated existing stressors, impacting the well-being of employees across various sectors.
- Tanzania — 56%
- Tanzania’s economy, heavily reliant on tourism and agriculture, has been severely affected, leading to heightened stress levels among workers.
- Tunisia — 56%
- Tunisia’s economic struggles, coupled with social and political unrest, contribute to the pervasive stress experienced by workers.
- Ghana — 54%
- Despite being one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, Ghana faces challenges related to unemployment and income inequality, leading to significant stress among workers.
- Sierra Leone — 53%
- Economic uncertainties and limited job opportunities, compounded by the aftermath of the Ebola epidemic, contribute to high stress levels.
- Senegal — 50%
- Economic vulnerabilities and inadequate social support systems contribute to the high-stress levels among workers.
- Nigeria — 50%
- Nigeria grapples with economic instability, security concerns, and political tensions, leading to high levels of worker stress.
- Guinea — 49%
- Economic development and political instability, along with limited access to essential services, exacerbate stress levels among the workforce.
- Libya — 49%
- Prolonged conflict and political instability have taken a toll on Libya’s economy, leading to widespread stress among employees.
Addressing the Crisis
The ongoing stress epidemic is affecting productivity and performance as organizational leaders navigate uncertainty. Gallup’s research reveals that having a job you dislike is more detrimental to quality of life than unemployment itself.
To mitigate the ongoing stress epidemic, economic policies aimed at stability, job creation, and social support are essential. Additionally, fostering a supportive work environment that prioritizes mental health and employee engagement can help alleviate the detrimental effects of stress on workers.
As Africa continues to navigate the post-pandemic landscape, addressing worker stress will be crucial in ensuring sustainable economic growth and improving the overall quality of life for its workforce.