Business Insider Africa has released a ranking showcasing five African Presidents distinguished by their advanced age, serving in office beyond the age of 76. Cameroonian President Paul Biya, aged 90, tops this list and is also the world’s oldest leader.
This ranking highlights not only the diversity of political perspectives in Africa but also the persistence of a generation of experienced leaders who continue to play a significant role on the global political stage.
1. Paul Biya, Cameroon, 90 years old
For nearly forty years, the name Paul Biya has been closely associated with the presidency of Cameroon. Born on February 13, 1933, he became President on November 6, 1982. He’s considered the dean of non-royal national leaders and remains the world’s oldest head of state due to his exceptional longevity in power.
2. Alassane Ouattara, Ivory Coast, 81 years old
Since 2011, Alassane Ouattara, born on January 1, 1942, has been the President of Ivory Coast. He gained extensive political and administrative experience as the country’s Prime Minister before assuming the presidency.
3. Teodoro Nguema Mbasogo, Equatorial Guinea, 81 years old
Since August 1979, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, born on June 5, 1942, has been the most influential leader in Equatorial Guinea. He’s not only one of Africa’s oldest leaders but also one of the non-royal national Presidents to hold office for the longest period in history.
4. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe, 80 years old
Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa is a Zimbabwean politician born on September 15, 1942, who took power on November 24, 2017. He represents a generational transition by succeeding Robert Mugabe after a coup and seeking a new presidential term in August 2023.
5. Nana Akufo-Addo, Ghana, 79 years old
On December 7, 2017, Nana Akufo-Addo, born on March 29, 1944, assumed the presidency of Ghana. His political career included three terms as a Member of Parliament between 1996 and 2008, as well as his role as Minister of Foreign Affairs during successful peace missions led by ECOWAS in Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and Guinea-Bissau.
Conclusion :
Additionally, two other prominent African Presidents in this age bracket. Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, aged 78 (born on September 15, 1944), continues to wield power, while Abdelmadjid Tebboune of Algeria, aged 77 (born on November 17, 1945), represents another seasoned figure in African politics.