In Africa, leadership tenures vary widely. As of 2025, several African presidents have distinguished themselves by their extended periods in office, each with a story that intertwines with the history and evolution of their respective countries. Here are some of the longest-serving African leaders.
1. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo – Equatorial Guinea
Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo is one of Africa’s longest-serving presidents, having ascended to power in 1979. His tenure began following a coup d’état that ousted his uncle, Francisco Macías Nguema. Over the decades, Obiang has maintained a firm grip on Equatorial Guinea’s political landscape.
2. Paul Biya – Cameroon
Paul Biya has been at the helm of Cameroon since 1982, making him one of the continent’s longest-serving leaders. Prior to his presidency, Biya served as Prime Minister under President Ahmadou Ahidjo. His ascent to the presidency came after Ahidjo’s unexpected resignation.
3. Yoweri Museveni – Uganda
Yoweri Museveni became the President of Uganda in 1986 after leading a successful armed struggle against the previous regime. His leadership initially brought hope for stability and economic growth following years of turmoil. Over the years, Museveni’s administration has implemented various economic reforms that have contributed to Uganda’s development. However, his extended tenure has sparked debates about democratic processes and governance in the country.
4. Idriss Déby – Chad
Idriss Déby took power in Chad in 1990 after leading a rebellion against then-President Hissène Habré. His presidency has been characterized by efforts to stabilize a nation often beset by internal conflicts and regional tensions. Déby’s role in regional security, especially in combating extremist groups in the Sahel region, has been notable. His long rule has also faced scrutiny regarding democratic practices and human rights issues.
5.Ismaïl Omar Guelleh – Djibouti
Ismaïl Omar Guelleh has served as the President of Djibouti since 1999, succeeding his uncle, Hassan Gouled Aptidon. Under Guelleh’s leadership, Djibouti has leveraged its strategic location at the Horn of Africa to become a hub for international military bases and trade, significantly influencing its economy and geopolitical importance.
6. Denis Sassou Nguesso – Republic of Congo
Denis Sassou Nguesso’s political career spans several decades, with his first term as President beginning in 1979. After a hiatus following electoral defeat in 1992, he returned to power in 1997 after a civil war. Since then, Sassou Nguesso has remained a dominant figure in Congolese politics, overseeing periods of both economic growth and political unrest. His extended rule has been a subject of debate concerning governance and constitutional term limits.
7. Paul Kagame – Rwanda
Paul Kagame assumed the presidency of Rwanda in 2000, following his role as Vice President and Minister of Defense in the post-genocide government. Kagame is credited with leading Rwanda’s remarkable recovery and transformation after the 1994 genocide, implementing policies that have spurred economic growth and social development. His leadership style and the extension of his tenure through constitutional amendments have been points of discussion both domestically and internationally.
8. Faure Gnassingbé – Togo
Faure Gnassingbé became the President of Togo in 2005, following the death of his father, Gnassingbé Eyadéma, who had ruled for 38 years. Gnassingbé’s presidency has continued his father’s legacy, with a focus on economic reforms and infrastructure development. However, his tenure has also been marked by political tensions and calls for democratic reforms from opposition groups.
9. Omar al-Bashir – Sudan
Omar al-Bashir ruled Sudan from 1989 until his ousting in 2019. His presidency was characterized by significant events, including the long-running conflict in Darfur and the secession of South Sudan in 2011. Al-Bashir’s rule ended following widespread protests and a military coup, leading to a transitional government aimed at steering Sudan towards democratic governance.
10. José Eduardo dos Santos – Angola
José Eduardo dos Santos served as the President of Angola from 1979 to 2017. His tenure encompassed the end of the Angolan Civil War and the country’s emergence as a major oil producer. Dos Santos played a pivotal role in Angola’s post-war reconstruction and economic development, although his presidency also faced criticism over corruption and wealth disparity.
