Africa is a continent with a deep history, home to some of the world’s oldest countries.
These countries have shaped Africa’s identity through their unique paths to independence and rich cultural traditions.
From ancient kingdoms to modern states, their stories show resilience, strength, and transformation.
Here are the ten oldest countries in Africa;
1. Liberia
Year of Independence: July 26, 1847.
Liberia is the oldest country in Africa. It became independent after being established in 1822 as a settlement for freed slaves. Its capital, Monrovia, was named after U.S. President James Monroe. Liberia became the first independent black republic in Africa, with Joseph Jenkins Roberts as its first president in 1848. The economy relied on trade and rubber exports, shaped by freed slaves and local communities.
2. South Africa
Year of Independence: May 31, 1910.
South Africa became independent as the Union of South Africa in 1910. Its capitals are Pretoria, Cape Town, and Bloemfontein. The country struggled with racial segregation under apartheid, which ended in 1994. Today, South Africa is known for its diverse culture, natural resources, and vibrant cities like Cape Town.
3. Egypt
Year of Independence: February 28, 1922
Egypt gained independence from British control in 1922. Its capital, Cairo, is the heart of its rich history. Though it became independent, Egypt remained a monarchy until 1956. Known for ancient landmarks like the Pyramids, Egypt has been a key player in Arab politics, particularly under President Gamal Abdel Nasser in the mid-20th century.
4. Ethiopia
Year of Independence: May 5, 1941.
Ethiopia, with its capital Addis Ababa, is one of the few African nations never colonised, although Italy occupied it from 1936 to 1941. Ethiopia regained full independence in 1941. The country is deeply rooted in ancient traditions and Christianity and remains a cultural and economic hub in East Africa.
5. Libya
Year of Independence: December 24, 1951.
Libya gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1951. Its capital, Tripoli, has been a centre of trade in North Africa. Libya’s early years were marked by constitutional rule, but it experienced political changes under Muammar Gaddafi’s leadership from 1969 to 2011. Libya is known for its vast oil reserves.
6. Sudan
Year of Independence: January 1, 1956.
Sudan, with its capital Khartoum, gained independence as one of Africa’s largest nations by land area. The country faced conflicts between its north and south, leading to the independence of South Sudan in 2011. Sudan remains a culturally diverse nation with ongoing political and economic challenges.
7. Morocco
Year of Independence: March 2, 1956.
Morocco, located in Northwest Africa, gained independence after resisting French and Spanish colonial rule. Its capital, Rabat, reflects a mix of historical and modern influences. Morocco transitioned to a constitutional monarchy and is a key player in African and Arab affairs.
8. Tunisia
Year of Independence: March 20, 1956.
Tunisia gained independence from France in 1956. Its capital, Tunis, is a blend of modernity and ancient history. The government implemented nationalisation policies after independence, allowing citizens greater access to resources. Tunisia is famous for its Carthaginian heritage and beautiful Mediterranean coastline.
9. Ghana
Year of Independence: March 6, 1957
Ghana, with its capital Accra, was the first sub-Saharan African nation to gain independence from colonial rule. Known for cocoa production and its vibrant culture, Ghana has become a model of political stability and economic success in West Africa.
10 Guinea
Independence Date: October 2, 1958.
Guinea, located in West Africa, gained independence from France. Its capital, Conakry, is a hub of cultural and historical importance. Despite challenges, Guinea is known for its natural beauty, rich cultural traditions, and economic resources like mining and agriculture.
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