Top 7 OLDEST Presidents In Africa [Photos]

Africa is often celebrated as the continent of youth, with its vibrant and rapidly growing young population. But if you look at the top leadership across many African nations, you might mistake it for a retirement home—or perhaps a very exclusive Senior Citizen Club, where age and experience are the golden tickets to power.

So, let’s dive into this unique club and meet the oldest African presidents still holding office as of 2024.

1. Paul Biya of Cameroon

Leading the club is Pau Biya, the granddaddy of them all at a ripe 91 years old. If you’re wondering how long he’s been at it, let’s just say some of his colleagues weren’t even born when he first took office. Biya has been ruling Cameroon since 1982. That’s right, folks—1982! This man has been in power longer than some of us have been alive. Imagine staying in the same job for over 40 years; you’d be the office legend, if not the office furniture!

2. Nangolo Mbumba of Namibia

At a youthful 82 years old, Nangolo Mbumba is one of the newest members of this elite club, having ascended to the presidency after the death of President Hage Geingob in 2024. Mbumba’s rise to the top is proof that sometimes in politics, it’s about being in the right place at the right time. It’s like waiting in line for the best piece of meat at a barbecue—you just have to be patient!

3. Alassane Ouattara of Ivory Coast

Alassane Ouattara also joins the 82-year-old squad, having been in power since 2010. Ouattara has been credited with helping to stabilize and grow Ivory Coast’s economy, which is no small feat. At this age, most people are thinking about how to make their retirement savings last. Ouattara, on the other hand, is figuring out how to keep a national economy afloat. Talk about a senior discount!

4. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea

If you’re impressed by Biya’s tenure, wait till you hear about Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo. He’s been president since 1979, making him not just the oldest but the longest-serving president in the world. That’s 45 years and counting! When he started, bell-bottoms were still in fashion. Who knew that running a country could outlast fashion trends?

5. Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe

At 81 years old, Emmerson Mnangagwa earned his nickname “the Crocodile” for his political cunning. He’s been in power since 2017, following a coup that ousted Robert Mugabe. Mnangagwa’s rule has been described as both authoritarian and resilient—much like a crocodile basking in the sun, just waiting for the right moment to snap!

6. Nana Akufo-Addo

Nana Akufo-Addo, at 79, has been the President of Ghana since 2017. He’s known for his efforts to combat corruption and boost the economy. But let’s face it, being president at 79 probably means his version of “boosting” is more like nudging gently and then taking a nap afterward. After all, you’ve got to conserve energy at that age!

7. Yoweri Museveni of Uganda

Yoweri Museveni is another 79-year-old who’s been running Uganda since 1986. That’s longer than some of the members of his own government have been alive. Known for his strong-handed leadership, Museveni has ruled for so long that it’s probably more of a habit now than a job.