Ah, South Africans. Is there a more resilient people? Between dodging potholes, crime and loadshedding, a recent study has named us the world’s friendliest nation.

You heard that right. We’re the Golden Retriever of countries, according to a study by

Fintech company Remitly that named us ‘The World’s Friendliest Nation’. They surveyed over 3,000 people worldwide to determine the friendliest and most welcoming countries, using questions from the “agreeableness” section of something called the Big 5 Personality Test to gauge respondents’ perspectives. We came out on top. 💪

But what is the Big 5 Personality Test? 

The test is grounded in the scientific “Big Five” model, which identifies five core personality traits: openness, conscientiousness, agreeableness, extraversion, and neuroticism. The Remitly study focuses on the “agreeableness” dimension, which is considered the most reliable indicator of social harmony and warmth. 

Enough of the jargon. South Africa scored the highest on the Big 5 Personality Test’s ‘agreeableness’ trait with an impressive 34.63 out of 40.💃

The study highlighted some unique aspects of South Africa that contributed to our top ranking. Our stunning natural beauty, fantastic weather (yes, even when it’s freezing), and the inherent friendliness of South Africans were among the reasons people voted for us. It’s a testament to our resilience and ability to maintain our friendly nature despite the challenges we face as Mzansi.

Other countries in the top five friendliest list include Greece, at number two; Croatia, Mexico (which recently got its first woman president); and Sweden, at numbers four, five, and six, respectively. 

Consider this: We also rose in the ranks of The World Happiness Index, climbing from 106 in pre-COVID years to 83 this year. This means that, despite all our woes, we’re a pretty happy bunch. Finland was named the happiest country for the seventh year in a row, followed by Denmark, Iceland and Sweden. (Insert Viking joke)

And now, as we wait for government coalitions after the election, we can’t help but imagine what a South Africa where things work would look like. Imagine reduced or no loadshedding, employment for the majority and a safe country where we’re not preoccupied with crime. We’re sure our friendliness and happiness would be through the roof! So do better, political parties. We want to beat Finland next year!

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