As Uganda gears up to celebrate its 62nd Independence Day on Wednesday, October 9, it’s notable that President Yoweri Museveni has held office for more than half of the nation’s independent years. Since Uganda gained independence, the country has seen nine presidents, but Museveni’s tenure surpasses the combined terms of all his predecessors.
While he is the longest-serving president in Uganda, Museveni ranks fourth in Africa among leaders who have remained in power for extended periods. Across the continent, several presidents have maintained their positions through constitutional amendments, electoral manipulation, and the suppression of political opposition.
Here’s a look at the ten longest-serving incumbent presidents in Africa:
Teodoro Obiang (45 years)
Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea has held the title of the longest-serving president in Africa and globally since August 1979, following a military coup that ousted his uncle. His administration has faced numerous allegations of human rights abuses and corruption.
Paul Biya (42 years)
Paul Biya has been in power in Cameroon since November 6, 1982. As Africa’s second-longest-serving president, he receives substantial support from France, including military aid and training. His government has been criticized for electoral fraud and governance challenges.
Denis Sassou Nguesso (40 years)
Denis Sassou Nguesso has served as the president of the Republic of the Congo for a total of 39 years, though not consecutively. His initial term lasted from 1979 to 1992, and he returned to power in 1997 after a civil war. His lengthy rule has been marked by allegations of corruption and authoritarianism.
Yoweri Museveni (38 years)
Yoweri Museveni has been the President of Uganda since January 1986, making him the fourth-longest-serving leader in Africa. Rising to power after a successful military campaign, Museveni’s tenure has faced criticism for alleged election rigging, corruption, and the torture of political opponents. All signs indicate that the 80-year-old will seek re-election in 2026.
King Mswati III (38 years)
King Mswati III of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) ascended to the throne on April 25, 1986, at the age of 18. One of the world’s longest-reigning monarchs, his rule has sparked ongoing debates over democratic reforms and human rights.
Isaias Afwerki (31 years)
Isaias Afwerki has been Eritrea’s president since the country gained independence from Ethiopia in April 1993. His rule is characterized by a lack of national elections, leading to persistent criticism regarding human rights and governance.
Letsie III (28 years)
King Letsie III of Lesotho became monarch in October 1997, following his father’s death. Although his role is largely ceremonial as a constitutional monarch, he remains one of Africa’s longest-serving rulers.
Ismaïl Omar Guelleh (25 years)
Ismaïl Omar Guelleh has led Djibouti since 1999, succeeding his uncle. He has faced allegations of extending his presidency through questionable electoral practices.
Mohammed VI (25 years)
King Mohammed VI of Morocco began his reign on July 23, 1999. Known as one of the most influential Muslim leaders globally, his tenure has focused on modernization and economic reforms, though it has not been without criticism.
Paul Kagame (30 years)
Paul Kagame has been Rwanda’s president since April 2000, having effectively led the country since 1994. His government is credited with significant economic growth, yet it faces scrutiny over political freedoms and human rights. In July, Kagame secured his fourth term in office, winning 99.15% of the vote in the presidential election.
As Uganda reflects on its past and the leaders who have shaped its history, the conversation about leadership, governance, and the future remains critical.
