A new global study has placed South Africa at the top of the world’s friendliest nations, according to research conducted by digital financial services company Remitly.
The study assessed participants using the “agreeableness” trait from the Big Five Personality Test, a measure that evaluates qualities such as kindness, helpfulness, empathy, and the willingness to cooperate with others.
South Africa emerged with the highest score overall, a result researchers linked to the country’s deep-rooted culture of hospitality and its embrace of “Ubuntu” — a philosophy centred on humanity, community, and mutual care.
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Respondents from South Africa reportedly scored strongly in areas tied to making others feel at ease, showing genuine concern for others, and nurturing positive social relationships.
Although friendliness rankings can shift depending on the methodology applied, the Remitly study pointed to South Africans’ warmth and openness as the standout qualities driving the nation’s number-one ranking.