Most Influential Politicians in Africa

Abdel Fattah el-Sisi is a central figure in African politics due to his leadership in Egypt, a nation with a large population and significant geostrategic importance. His influence extends through his role in regional stability and the continent's international relations.

• Greater influence through a growing network of relationships

• Intense itinerant diplomacy

Hailemariam Desalegn served as the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, a pivotal country in the Horn of Africa, granting him significant regional and continental influence. During his tenure, he played an active role in diplomacy and conflict mediation in the region, solidifying his position as a weighty political figure on the African stage.

• He was deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs

• Prime minister of Ethiopia

Thabo Mbeki was a central figure in South African politics, leading the country through a crucial period of democratic consolidation and international affirmation. His influence extended beyond South Africa, playing a significant role in promoting the African Union and seeking solutions to conflicts across the continent.

• Championed the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD)

• Key figure in the African Union

• Promoted diplomacy and conflict resolution

Cyril Ramaphosa, as the president of South Africa, leads the continent's largest economy and wields significant influence over political and economic decisions within the African Union. His leadership in South Africa and his role in international forums position him as a key figure in the African political landscape.

• President of the Republic of South Africa

• President of the African National Congress (ANC)

• Chairperson of the African Union in 2020

Nelson Mandela is a central figure in the fight against apartheid and reconciliation in South Africa. His leadership inspired freedom movements across the continent. His legacy as a champion of justice and equality enshrines him as one of the most influential African politicians in history.

• First democratically elected president of South Africa under universal suffrage

• A reference point for the struggle for the rights of South Africans

• Political legend

Uhuru Kenyatta, as the former president of Kenya, wielded considerable influence in East African politics and across the continent. His leadership over two terms was characterized by significant economic and diplomatic initiatives that shaped the region's trajectory.

• Deputy Prime Minister of the National Unity Government

Olusegun Obasanjo is a heavyweight political figure in Africa, having served as the president of Nigeria and playing a key role in the country's democratic transition. His leadership and experience continue to influence continental politics.

• Considered one of the greatest African statesmen

Paul Kagame is a central figure in African politics due to his transformative leadership in Rwanda, driving significant economic growth and remarkable stability in the aftermath of the genocide. His vision and policies have exerted considerable influence in the region, setting an example for development and governance.

• Promoter of security in sub-Saharan Africa

• Effectively revived and modernized his country

• Rescued Rwanda from genocide and allowed its reconstruction

Alpha Condé, as the former president of Guinea, wielded considerable influence in West African politics during his tenure. His leadership and the decisions made in Guinea had regional repercussions, positioning him as a key figure in the African political landscape.

• Historic opposition leader

As the former president of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari led Africa's most populous nation, wielding considerable influence over regional and continental politics. His tenure addressed significant security and economic issues, giving him substantial weight in African decision-making.

• Reduced the number of ministries and senior officials

• Won the presidential election

• Candidate of progressive political formations