Oldest African Presidents to Hold Office

Oldest African Presidents to Hold Office- 90s and above

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In African politics, some leaders are known for staying in power for a long. Often, there are fewer cases of leaders stepping aside to make way for younger generations, and that is why some have remained in power up to their 90s. These kinds of presidents have defied age, political opposition, and in some cases, constitutional limits. This article looks at African presidents who held office even after reaching 90 years.

  1. Paul Biya (Cameroon)

Current age in 2025 is 92 years old

He was born on February 13, 1933

Has been in office since November 6, 1982.

As at 2025, Paul Biya, is Africa’s longest-serving head of state, has ruled Cameroon for over four decades. Now in his 90s, Biya remains a towering figure in African politics. His presidency, marked by a mix of modernization and controversy, continues to shape the nation’s future.

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Biya

  1. Hastings Kamuzu Banda (Malawi)

The age when he left office was 96 years old

Although the date Hastings was born is disputed, it is estimated that his date of birth was February 14, 1898

He died on November 25, 1997

Was in Office from July 6, 1964 – May 24, 1994

“Hastings Kamuzu Banda, known as the ‘Lion of Malawi,’ ruled for 30 years. At nearly 96, he left office as one of the oldest African leaders ever. His reign was a mix of strict authoritarianism and national pride.”

kamuzu

  1. Robert Mugabe (Zimbabwe)

Age when he left office: 93 years old.

Born on February 21, 1924, and died on September 6, 2019

Was in Office from April 18, 1980 – November 21, 2017

“At 93, Robert Mugabe stood at the helm of Zimbabwe for 37 years, defying age and political commotion. His legacy is one of liberation and later controversy cast a long shadow over Zimbabwe’s history.”

mugabe

  1. Beji Caid Essebsi (Tunisia)

Age when he died while in office was 92 years old.

He was born in November 29, 1926

Died on July 25, 2019

“Beji Caid Essebsi, Tunisia’s first democratically elected president, was still leading the country at 92 when he passed away. His presidency symbolized Tunisia’s transition to democracy after the Arab Spring.”