6 African Presidents Who Survived Assassination Attempts

Donald Trump former U.S. President was targeted in an assassination attempt while at a campaign rally on July 13. The attacker, named Thomas Crooks, fired multiple shots at Trump from a distance. 

Trump, who is running for president again in 2024, was only slightly injured. 

In Africa, six presidents have survived assassination attempts. These African leaders, from different regions have faced deadly threats that tested their security measures and exposed the volatile political landscapes they navigated. 

This bold attack is a reminder of the dangers that political leaders face, not just in the U.S. but around the world, including African Countries.

1. Muhammadu Buhari(Nigeria)

Muhammadu Buhari survived a bomb attack in 2014, the incident took place in Kaduna, just under a year before he was elected president.

The former President was travelling to his home in Daura, Kaduna state when a twin bomb blast killed about 50 people.

2. Hosni Mubarak (Egypt)

1995 Addis Ababa Attempt: During a visit to Ethiopia, militants attacked Mubarak’s convoy in an attempt to assassinate him. This incident significantly affected relations between Egypt and other African nations, leading to increased security protocols for Mubarak.

1999 Port Said Attack: Mubarak faced another life-threatening moment when his convoy was attacked in Port Said. Mubarak’s security team swiftly neutralised the assailant.

3. Jacob Zuma (South Africa)

 Jacob Zuma has spoken about surviving several assassination attempts, including one where he was nearly poisoned, a plot that surfaced amidst South Africa’s geopolitical manoeuvring within BRICS. Additionally, there was an arrest of a man plotting to kill him in an attempt to overthrow the government.

4. Nelson Mandela (South Africa)

 The revered Nelson Mandela endured numerous assassination threats over his lifetime. A notable plot against him was orchestrated by the Boeremag, a far-right group in South Africa that aimed to assassinate him and reinstall apartheid by overthrowing the government.

5. Kwame Nkrumah (Ghana)

Kwame Nkrumah, a prominent figure advocating for pan-Africanism, survived multiple assassination attempts during his presidency. These attempts were politically motivated by those opposed to his progressive policies and ideals. His presidency ended with a military coup in 1966 after surviving more than five assassination attempts.

6. Cyril Ramaphosa (South Africa)

Cyril Ramaphosa has faced serious threats against his life, coming from within his own party and other political rivals. The seriousness of these threats became apparent during his inauguration, which included an incident involving a fake soldier, underscoring the constant danger he faces.