Africa is home to some of the world’s most seasoned political leaders—individuals who have not only stood the test of time but have also helped shape the destiny of their nations over decades. These leaders bring a wealth of experience, having witnessed their countries through post-independence transitions, economic challenges, regional conflicts, and global political shifts.
1. Paul Biya – Cameroon | Age: 91
Born: February 13, 1933
Paul Biya stands as not only Africa’s oldest serving president but also one of the longest-reigning leaders in the world. He became President of Cameroon in 1982 after serving as Prime Minister from 1975. With over four decades at the helm, Biya’s rule has been marked by both political stability and criticism over democratic backsliding. Despite advancing age and calls for leadership renewal, Biya remains a central figure in Cameroonian politics.
2. Alassane Ouattara – Côte d’Ivoire | Age: 8
Born: January 1, 1942
Alassane Ouattara, an economist by training, has been leading Côte d’Ivoire since 2010. He previously worked at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and served as Prime Minister in the early 1990s. His presidency has focused on economic reform and post-conflict recovery following years of civil unrest. At 83, Ouattara continues to shape Ivorian politics, though his third term sparked controversy over constitutional term limits.
3. Nangolo Mbumba – Namibia | Age: 83
Born: August 15, 1941
Nangolo Mbumba assumed the presidency of Namibia in February 2024 following the death of President Hage Geingob. Prior to this, he served as Vice President and held various ministerial roles, including education and finance. Mbumba’s ascension marks a continuity of leadership within the SWAPO party. As Namibia’s head of state, his extensive background in governance and diplomacy provides him with a steady hand during transition.
4. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo – Equatorial Guinea | Age: 82
Born: June 5, 1942
Teodoro Obiang is Africa’s longest-serving president, having taken power in a 1979 coup. His rule over Equatorial Guinea has lasted more than four decades. Despite allegations of authoritarianism and corruption, Obiang remains firmly in control. Under his leadership, the country experienced an oil boom, though much of the population still faces poverty and limited political freedoms.
5. Emmerson Mnangagwa – Zimbabwe | Age: 82
Born: September 15, 1942
Often referred to as “The Crocodile” due to his political cunning, Emmerson Mnangagwa rose to power in 2017 after Robert Mugabe’s dramatic ousting. A former intelligence chief and close ally of Mugabe, he promised reform but has faced criticism over economic mismanagement and human rights concerns. At 82, Mnangagwa continues to navigate Zimbabwe’s complex political landscape.
6. Denis Sassou Nguesso – Republic of the Congo | Age: 81
Born: November 23, 1943
Denis Sassou Nguesso is one of the most enduring political figures in Africa, first becoming president in 1979 and then again from 1997 to the present after a brief interruption. His leadership has seen both periods of civil war and political consolidation. With over three decades in power across two terms, he remains a dominant figure in Congolese politics.
7. Yoweri Museveni – Uganda | Age: 80
Born: September 15, 1944
President since 1986, Yoweri Museveni brought relative stability to Uganda following years of conflict. His leadership has focused on economic development and regional peacekeeping, though recent years have seen growing discontent over suppression of opposition voices and the removal of age and term limits. Museveni’s long tenure reflects a broader trend of constitutional amendments favoring incumbents in Africa.
8. Joseph Boakai – Liberia | Age: 80
Born: November 30, 1944
Joseph Boakai became president of Liberia in January 2024, following a successful bid against incumbent George Weah. A seasoned politician, Boakai previously served as Vice President under Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Known for his calm demeanor and technocratic approach, Boakai’s leadership is seen as a return to traditional governance following Weah’s populist tenure.
9. Abdelmadjid Tebboune – Algeria | Age: 79
Born: November 17, 1945
Abdelmadjid Tebboune assumed Algeria’s presidency in December 2019 following widespread protests that ended Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s two-decade rule. Tebboune, a former Prime Minister and long-serving public servant, has faced pressure to implement democratic reforms and diversify the oil-dependent economy. At 79, he stands as a transitional figure between the old guard and a new political generation.
10. Isaias Afwerki – Eritrea | Age: 79
Born: February 2, 1946
Isaias Afwerki has led Eritrea since its independence from Ethiopia in 1993, making him one of the longest-serving presidents on the continent. Known for his hardline leadership and closed political system, Eritrea under Afwerki has remained largely isolated from the international community. His presidency has been marked by strict controls on media, travel, and opposition activity, with national service lasting indefinitely for many citizens.
The longevity of these African presidents highlights the complex intersection of leadership, stability, and democratic transition across the continent. While experience often brings wisdom, many critics argue that aging leadership can hinder progress and innovation, especially in nations with youthful populations. Still, these leaders—whether respected, controversial, or a mix of both—have left indelible marks on their countries’ histories.
As Africa continues to evolve politically and socially, the balance between experienced leadership and generational change remains one of its most important challenges.