See list of 7 oldest nations in Africa

Africa is the cradle of human civilisation and one of the world’s oldest inhabited continents.

Long before modern countries were formed, powerful kingdoms, empires and organised societies existed across its lands.

Because of this deep history, identifying Africa’s oldest nations depends on how “old” is defined.

Some countries are considered ancient because of long-standing civilisation and continuity, while others earn their place for being among the earliest to achieve modern independence.

When both views are combined, these seven countries are most often recognised as Africa’s oldest nations.

1. Ethiopia

Ethiopia is widely regarded as Africa’s oldest continuous state. Its imperial history dates back to 1270, but earlier civilisations such as D’mt, around the 8th century BCE, and the Aksumite Empire of the 1st century CE existed in the same region.

Ethiopia is unique because it largely resisted European colonisation, except for a brief Italian occupation that ended in 1941.

This long tradition of self-rule has made Ethiopia a strong symbol of African independence and pride.

2. Egypt

Egypt’s importance lies in its ancient civilisation rather than its modern political age.

Around 3150 BCE, ancient Egypt became one of the world’s first unified kingdoms, developing writing, organised government and monumental architecture.

Although modern Egypt gained independence from Britain in 1922, its ancient history places it among Africa’s oldest nations by civilisation and cultural influence.

3. Liberia

Liberia is Africa’s oldest modern republic. It declared independence on July 26, 1847, long before most African countries broke free from colonial rule.

Founded by freed Black slaves from the United States, Liberia became self-governing in the 19th century.

Despite internal challenges and years of political instability, its early independence remains a major landmark in African history.

4. South Africa

South Africa’s age is tied to political unification rather than ancient statehood.

In 1910, the Union of South Africa was formed, bringing several territories together under one government, though still under British authority.

The country later became a republic in 1961. Today, South Africa is Africa’s most industrialised nation and one of its most diverse societies.

5. Morocco

Morocco’s history stretches back to early Islamic dynasties that ruled North Africa from the 8th century.

While the modern state gained independence from French and Spanish rule in 1956, Morocco has maintained a continuous monarchy for centuries.

This blend of ancient governance and modern independence gives Morocco a strong claim among Africa’s oldest nations.

6. Tunisia

Tunisia is rooted in one of the ancient world’s most powerful civilisations. The land was home to Carthage before becoming part of the Roman Empire.

Tunisia achieved independence from France in 1956, but its long history as a centre of trade, culture and governance places it among Africa’s oldest historically significant nations.

7. Ghana

Ghana is the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence from colonial rule, achieving self-rule in 1957.

While the modern nation is young, the region once hosted powerful kingdoms, including the ancient Ghana Empire, which thrived between the 6th and 13th centuries.

Ghana’s independence inspired liberation movements across Africa and marked a turning point in the continent’s history.