The Top 5 Longest Serving African Presidents As of 2025

Africa has a notable history of long-serving leaders, with some presidencies extending for decades. 

Many of these leaders have either refused to step down or have secured re-election through various means, continuing to hold power across the continent.

Here are the top 5 Longest-Serving African Presidents as of 2025:

1. Paul Biya (Cameroon) – 50 Years 

Paul Biya has been the President of Cameroon since November 6, 1982, making him the second-longest-serving non-royal national leader globally and the oldest head of state in the world. His lengthy rule has seen Cameroon navigate through various political and economic challenges.

2. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo (Equatorial Guinea) – 45 Years 

Africa’s longest-serving president, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, took power on August 3, 1979, by overthrowing his uncle. Despite Equatorial Guinea’s wealth from oil reserves, the country suffers from vast socio-economic inequalities. 

Obiang’s regime has faced international criticism over human rights abuses, corruption, and limited political freedoms.

3. Denis Sassou Nguesso (Republic of Congo) – 39 Years 

Denis Sassou Nguesso has served as the President of the Republic of Congo for two periods, first from 1979 to 1992 and then from 1997 to the present, following a civil war. 

In 2015, he pushed through a constitutional referendum that eliminated presidential term limits, allowing him to win re-election in 2016 amid claims of electoral fraud by the opposition. His rule has focused on maintaining national stability.

4. Yoweri Museveni (Uganda) – 39 Years 

Since taking power on January 29, 1986, after a guerrilla war, Yoweri Museveni has overseen periods of economic growth and stability in Uganda. Nonetheless, his long tenure has been shadowed by concerns over democratic erosion, suppression of political dissent, and human rights issues. 

Changes to the constitution in 2005 and 2017 removed limits on presidential terms and age, enabling Museveni to prolong his presidency.

5. Isaias Afwerki (Eritrea) – 32 Years 

Isaias Afwerki has ruled Eritrea since its independence in 1993 and remains its only president. Under his leadership, the government is known for its severe repression, including mandatory military service, strict media censorship, and limited civil freedoms.