These five leaders, Teodoro Obiang, Paul Biya, Sassou Nguesso, Yoweri Museveni, and Isaias Afwerki, have spent decades in the presidential seat, leaving a mark on their nations that few can rival.

These leaders have witnessed entire generations grow up under their rule, shaping politics, culture and national identity. Their extended stay in power has brought stability in some cases but also controversy, resistance, and calls for reform.

See the list of the longest-serving presidents in Africa below:

Obiang: The World’s Longest-Serving President

Equatorial Guinea’s Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has held power since 1979, making him the longest-serving president in the world. Nearly 46 years after seizing power in a coup against his uncle, Obiang continues to dominate the political scene in the small, oil-rich nation.

While supporters hail him for maintaining stability, critics accuse his government of entrenched corruption and stifling political freedoms. Love him or hate him, Obiang has built a legacy that few leaders globally can rival.

Biya: Africa’s Oldest President at 92

At 92 years old, Cameroon’s Paul Biya is Africa’s oldest sitting president. He has ruled the Central African nation since 1982, quietly navigating decades of regional turbulence.

His long tenure has brought continuity, but opponents argue that it has come at the cost of democratic reform. Biya’s controversial eighth-term victory this October shows that the veteran leader is not bowing out yet.

Sassou Nguesso: Congo’s Political Survivor

Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of Congo first came to power in 1979, ruling until 1992. After returning in 1997 following a civil conflict, he has remained firmly in control.

Sassou Nguesso’s rule has been marked by cycles of reconstruction and political challenges, but his ability to weather storms has kept him at the helm of Congolese politics for over four decades.

Museveni: Uganda’s Reluctant Reformer-Turned Strongman

Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni seized power in 1986, promising sweeping reforms and stability. Nearly 40 years later, he remains the dominant figure in Ugandan politics.

His supporters credit him with delivering stability and fostering economic growth, but critics say his prolonged rule has weakened democratic institutions and entrenched authoritarianism.

Afwerki: Eritrea’s First and Only President

Since Eritrea gained independence in 1993, Isaias Afwerki has been its only leader. With no scheduled elections, his uninterrupted rule has now lasted over three decades.

For some, Afwerki represents national sovereignty and resilience, while for others, his government symbolises tight control and limited freedoms. His legacy remains deeply polarising both within Eritrea and abroad.