Africa has seen several presidents and monarchs who have remained in power for extended periods.
These long-serving leaders often secure their positions through constitutional amendments, electoral manipulation, and the suppression of political opposition.
That said, here are the top ten longest-serving presidents and monarchs in Africa as of 2024.
10. Paul Kagame (24 years)
Paul Kagame has been President of Rwanda since April 2000, having effectively led the country since 1994. He took office officially after the resignation of President Bizimungu. Kagame’s administration is praised for economic growth and development, but it has also faced criticism regarding political freedoms and human rights.
9. Mohammed VI (25 years)
King Mohammed VI of Morocco ascended to the throne on July 23 1999, following the death of his father, King Hassan II. As one of the most prominent Muslim leaders in the world, his reign has focused on modernization and economic reform, although it has not been without controversy.
8. Ismaïl Omar Guelleh (25 years)
Ismaïl Omar Guelleh has been the President of Djibouti since 1999, succeeding his uncle, Hassan Gouled Aptidon, who had ruled since the nation’s independence. Guelleh has faced allegations of extending his presidency through dubious means and questionable electoral practices.
7. Letsie III (28 years)
King Letsie III of Lesotho became monarch in October 1997 after the death of his father, Moshoeshoe II. As a constitutional monarch, his role is largely ceremonial, yet he remains one of Africa’s longest-serving rulers.
6. Isaias Afwerki (31 years)
Isaias Afwerki has been President of Eritrea since its independence from Ethiopia in April 1993. His long tenure is marked by the absence of national elections, leading to ongoing criticisms regarding human rights and governance.
5. King Mswati III (38 years)
King Mswati III of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) ascended to the throne on April 25 1986 at just 18 years old. He is one of the world’s longest-reigning monarchs, co-ruling with his mother, Queen Mother Ntfombi Tfwala. His reign has sparked continuous debates over democratic reforms and human rights issues.
4. Yoweri Museveni (38 years)
Yoweri Museveni has been President of Uganda since January 1986, making him the fourth-longest-serving president in Africa. He came to power following a successful military campaign against previous regimes. His leadership has faced accusations of election rigging and suppressing dissent.
3. Denis Sassou Nguesso (40 years)
Denis Sassou Nguesso has served as president of the Republic of the Congo for 39 years, though not consecutively. His first term lasted from 1979 to 1992, and he returned to power in 1997 after a civil war. Nguesso’s lengthy rule has been marred by allegations of corruption and authoritarianism.
2. Paul Biya (42 years)
Paul Biya has been President of Cameroon since November 6, 1982, making him the second-longest-serving president in Africa. His administration is backed by solid support from France, which has provided military aid and training. Biya’s tenure has drawn criticism for electoral fraud and poor governance.
1. Teodoro Obiang (45 years)
Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea is the longest-serving president in Africa and globally, having been in power since August 1979 after a military coup that ousted his uncle, Francisco Macías Nguema. Obiang’s rule has been marked by severe allegations of human rights abuses and corruption.