Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Evans Annang
Published on 2024-03-26 14:33:32
Africa is home to some of the oldest presidents in the world, with leaders who have been in power for decades. Let’s take a closer look at some of the oldest presidents in Africa, their countries, and their ages.
At the top of the list is President Paul Biya of Cameroon, who, at 90 years old, has been in power since November 1982, making him not just the oldest but also one of the longest-serving presidents in Africa. Following close behind is President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea, who, at 81 years old, has been the country’s leader since August 1979, holding the record as the world’s longest-serving president.
Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, the President of Zimbabwe, was born on September 15, 1942, in Shabani (now Zvishavane), Zimbabwe. Mnangagwa has been a central figure in Zimbabwean politics for decades, known for his close association with Robert Mugabe, the country’s long-serving leader before Mnangagwa succeeded him.
President Alassane Ouattara of Ivory Coast, at 81 years old, has been at the helm of Ivory Coast since 2010, contributing significantly to the country’s post-conflict recovery and economic growth. President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, also 79 years old, has been leading Uganda since 1986, with his presidency marked by both achievements in stability and controversies regarding governance and human rights.
President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana, aged 79, has been in office since 2017. His leadership focuses on tackling corruption and enhancing Ghana’s economic fortunes. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of Algeria, at 76 years old, has led Algeria since December 2019, following a period of protests and political upheaval, with a focus on reform and stability.
President Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti, also 76 years old, has been Djibouti’s leader since 1999. His long tenure has seen Djibouti’s strategic role in the Horn of Africa and its relations with international partners strengthen.
These leaders represent a mix of political landscapes in Africa, with some holding power for decades and others relatively newer to office. Despite their age, these presidents continue to navigate the complexities of governing their countries and addressing the challenges they face.
The presence of these older leaders in Africa’s political landscape raises questions about generational shifts in leadership and the need for succession planning to ensure continuity and progress. As these presidents continue to lead their countries, the world watches to see how they navigate the changing dynamics of global politics and domestic challenges.
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