Insight

• Ikiodiete George
• 4 Min Read

Top 10 Oldest Countries In Africa And The History Behind Their Existence

Africa is not just the cradle of humanity; it is also home to some of the oldest civilizations and nations in the world. Long before colonization and modern borders, powerful African empires, kingdoms, and city-states thrived across the continent — with cultures, religions, and governance systems that influenced world history.

This post highlights the 10 oldest countries in Africa, based on their historical continuity, ancient civilizations, and the legacy that shapes their modern identity.

Top 10 Oldest Countries in Africa

Country-by-Country Historical Breakdown

1. Egypt

One of the oldest civilizations in the world, Egypt dates back over 5,000 years. It was ruled by powerful pharaohs, built pyramids, and gave rise to monumental architecture, mathematics, and written language (hieroglyphics).

2. Ethiopia

Often regarded as the oldest independent African nation, Ethiopia's monarchy traces back to the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon. It was home to the Aksumite Empire, one of the four great powers of the ancient world, and it was never colonized, except for a brief Italian occupation.

3. Libya

Ancient Libya was home to Berber civilizations and Phoenician colonies. It became part of the Roman Empire and later hosted Islamic dynasties and Ottoman rule before modern statehood.

4. Morocco

Morocco’s monarchy was founded in the 8th century. It has maintained a unique blend of Berber, Arab, and Andalusian cultures. The country has one of the oldest continuous governments in the world.

5. Tunisia

Home to the ancient city of Carthage, Tunisia played a significant role in Mediterranean history. Carthage fought the Punic Wars against Rome and became a center of trade and innovation.

6. Sudan

Ancient Nubia, which stretched into modern Sudan, housed the Kingdoms of Kush and Meroë, powerful civilizations that once rivaled Egypt. The Sudanese Nile Valley was a core center of early African power.

7. Algeria

From Numidian tribes to Berber dynasties and Roman cities, Algeria’s history spans millennia. The region has seen Islamic caliphates and French colonialism but retains deep-rooted cultural identity.

8. Ghana (Ancient Empire)

Though the Ancient Ghana Empire was located in parts of modern-day Mali and Mauritania, the name was adopted by modern Ghana to honor that heritage. It was a hub for gold trade and advanced governance.

9. Mali

The Mali Empire was one of the wealthiest and most powerful in African history. Under Mansa Musa, it expanded into a center of Islamic scholarship and wealth, with Timbuktu as its capital of learning.

10. Nigeria

With the ancient Nok civilization and historic Hausa city-states, Nigeria’s regions were home to complex societies long before colonialism. The Benin Empire, Ife Kingdom, and Kanem-Bornu Empire reflect its pre-colonial strength.

What Makes a Country “Old” in Africa?

Timeline Overview

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

Africa’s rich and layered history goes far beyond colonial timelines. These countries — through empires, dynasties, and cultural resilience — have shaped not only the continent’s story but global civilization as a whole. From Egypt's pyramids to Ethiopia’s enduring independence, the continent remains a living museum of the world’s oldest legacies.