Africa is a continent rich in history and culture, with countries that have been in existence for hundreds of years. In this article, we will be discussing the 10 oldest countries in Africa. From Liberia, which gained independence on July 26, 1847, to Guinea, which became independent on Oct 2, 1958, these countries have a rich history and unique cultures.
Let’s dive in and explore these ten oldest countries in Africa.
10 Oldest African Countries
| Oldest countries | Capital | Land Area |
| Liberia | Monrovia | 111,369 km² |
| South Africa | Pretoria, Cape Town, and Bloemfontein | 1.22 million km² |
| Egypt | Cairo | 1.002 million km² |
| Ethiopia | Addis Ababa | 1.112 million km² |
| Libya | Tripoli | 1.76 million km² |
| Sudan | Khartoum | 1.861 million km² |
| Morocco | Rabat | 710,850 km² |
| Tunisia | Tunis | 163,610 km² |
| Ghana | Accra | 238,533 km² |
| Guinea | Conakry | 245,857 km² |
1. Liberia
Liberia is the oldest country in Africa, having gained independence on July 26, 1847. Its capital city is Monrovia, and it has a land area of 111,369 km². Liberia is known for being the first and oldest modern republic in Africa, and it is famous for its rubber and timber production. However, despite being rich in natural resources, Liberia is still considered a poor country, with high levels of poverty and unemployment.
Is Liberia a rich or poor country?
Liberia is considered a poor country, with high levels of poverty and unemployment.
Is Liberia big or small?
Liberia has a land area of 111,369 km², making it a relatively small country in Africa.
What is Liberia best known for?
Liberia is known for being the first and oldest modern republic in Africa, as well as for its rubber and timber production.
Is Monrovia a big city?
Monrovia is the capital and largest city of Liberia, with a population of over one million people.
2. South Africa
South Africa gained independence on May 31, 1910, and it is one of the most well-known and oldest countries in Africa. It has three capital cities, namely Pretoria, Cape Town, and Bloemfontein, and a land area of 1.22 million km².
South Africa is famous for its wildlife, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. It is also known for its apartheid history, which ended in 1994 when Nelson Mandela became the country’s first black president.
Why does South Africa have 3 capitals?
South Africa has three capital cities, namely Pretoria, Cape Town, and Bloemfontein, because each city represents a different branch of the government.
For what is South Africa famous?
South Africa is famous for its wildlife, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage.
What is the new name for South Africa?
There is no new name for South Africa. It is still known as the Republic of South Africa.
What are the 11 countries in southern Africa?
The 11 countries in southern Africa are South Africa, Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.
3. Egypt
Egypt gained independence on February 28, 1922, and it is located in the northeastern part of Africa. Its capital city is Cairo, and it has a land area of 1.002 million km². Egypt is famous for its ancient history and landmarks, including the pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. It is also known for being the most populous Arab country in the world and also the oldest country in Africa.
Why were the Arabs interested in Egypt?
The Arabs were interested in Egypt because of its strategic location and rich history.
Is Egypt in Africa or China?
Egypt is located in Africa, not China.
What country is Egypt now?
Egypt is still known as the Arab Republic of Egypt and is located in northeastern Africa.
4. Ethiopia
Ethiopia is located in the Horn of Africa and is the oldest country in Africa. It has a rich cultural heritage, and its capital city, Addis Ababa, is the diplomatic capital of Africa. Here are some interesting facts about Ethiopia:
What is Ethiopia famous for?
Ethiopia is famous for being home to the famous coffee bean and is the largest coffee producer in Africa.
What are 5 facts about Ethiopia?
- Ethiopia is the second-most populous country in Africa, with a population of over 100 million people.
- Ethiopia is home to the famous coffee bean and is the largest coffee producer in Africa.
- Ethiopia has its unique alphabet called the Ge’ez script, which has been used since the 5th century.
- Ethiopia has a unique way of telling time, and the day starts at dawn (6 AM) rather than midnight.
- Ethiopia has a significant religious influence, with Christianity and Islam being the most popular religions.
Why did Ethiopia change its name?
Ethiopia was officially renamed “Ethiopia” from “Abyssinia” to assert its identity as an independent nation and distance itself from colonialism.
What is Ethiopia rich in?
Ethiopia is rich in natural resources, including gold, platinum, and tantalum. It is also known for its unique and diverse wildlife, including the Ethiopian wolf, Walia ibex, and Gelada baboon.
Is Ethiopia a rich or poor country?
Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world, with a low GDP per capita and a high poverty rate. However, the country has made significant strides in economic growth in recent years.
Which state is called Ethiopia of India?
The state of Mizoram in India is known as the “Ethiopia of India” because of its cultural and geographical similarities to Ethiopia.
5. Libya
Libya is located in North Africa and is the second-oldest country in Africa. Here are some interesting facts about Libya:
Is Libya a rich or poor country?
Despite its vast oil resources, Libya is considered a poor country, with a high poverty rate and low GDP per capita.
What is the problem in Libya?
Libya has been facing a political crisis since the ousting of its former dictator, Muammar Gaddafi, in 2011. The country has been divided into two opposing governments, leading to violence and instability.
Who is ruling Libya now?
Currently, Libya is ruled by the Government of National Unity, which was formed in March 2021 and aims to reunite the country and hold elections later in the year.
What did Gaddafi do to Libya?
Muammar Gaddafi ruled Libya with an iron fist for over 40 years, using his regime’s wealth to fund military expansion and suppress political dissent. His ousting in 2011 led to a power vacuum and ongoing conflict in the country.
6. Sudan
Sudan is the largest and oldest country in Africa and the Arab world. It gained independence from British and Egyptian rule on January 1, 1956. With a land area of 1.861 million km², Sudan is the third-largest country in Africa.
Is Sudan a Rich or Poor Country?
Sudan is a lower-middle-income country, with a GDP per capita of $4,509. However, Sudan has abundant natural resources such as oil, gold, and agriculture. Despite this, the country has struggled with political instability and economic sanctions, leading to high levels of poverty and unemployment.
What is Sudan Famous for?
Sudan is famous for its ancient civilization of Nubia, the pyramids of Meroë, and the historic city of Khartoum, where the White and Blue Nile rivers meet. The country is also known for its diverse culture, including its traditional music, art, and cuisine.
Is Sudan an Arab Country?
Sudan is a diverse country with over 500 ethnic groups, including Arabs, Nubians, and Beja. While Arabic is the official language of the country, it is not the only language spoken.
What is Sudan’s Main Source of Income?
Sudan’s main sources of income are agriculture and natural resources, particularly oil. The country is also a leading producer of cotton, gum Arabic, and sesame.
7. Morocco
Morocco is located in North Africa and gained independence from France on March 2, 1956. With a land area of 710,850 km², Morocco is the 25th largest and oldest country in Africa.
Why is Morocco Famous?
Morocco is famous for its vibrant culture, including its delicious cuisine, colorful markets, and traditional music. The country is also known for its stunning architecture, including the Kasbahs and the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
Are Moroccans Arab or African?
Morocco is a diverse country with a mixture of Arab, Berber, and African cultures. While Arabic is the official language, the country also recognizes Berber as a national language.
Is Morocco Friendly to Tourists?
Morocco is known for its hospitality and is a popular tourist destination. However, travelers are advised to take precautions and be aware of pickpocketing and other petty crimes.
Is Morocco French or Arabic?
Morocco was colonized by France from 1912 to 1956 and was heavily influenced by French culture. However, the country has since reclaimed its Arabic and Berber heritage and is considered an Arab country.
8. Tunisia
Tunisia is one of the oldest countries in Africa, having gained its independence from France on March 20, 1956. Located in North Africa, Tunisia is home to a rich history that dates back to the ancient Carthaginian Empire. Today, Tunisia is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine.
Can you drink alcohol in Tunisia?
Yes, alcohol is legal in Tunisia, and many bars and restaurants serve alcohol. However, it is important to be respectful of the country’s Muslim culture and avoid public displays of drunkenness.
Is it safe to travel to Tunisia today?
While Tunisia has experienced some security challenges in recent years, the country is generally safe for tourists. However, it is important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Is Tunisia good for a holiday?
Yes, Tunisia is a great destination for a holiday, with plenty of attractions to see and things to do. From ancient ruins to beautiful beaches, the country has something for everyone.
Is Tunisia open for Indian tourists?
Yes, Tunisia is open to Indian tourists, and visitors from India are welcome to visit the country. However, it is important to check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements before booking your trip.
9. Ghana
Ghana gained its independence from the United Kingdom on March 6, 1957, making it one of the oldest countries in Africa. Located in West Africa, Ghana is known for its rich culture, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
Is Ghana a rich or poor?
Ghana is considered a lower-middle-income country, with a growing economy and a rapidly expanding middle class.
What is Ghana famous for?
Ghana is famous for many things, including its gold and cocoa production, its vibrant music and dance culture, and its role in the African slave trade.
What are 3 facts about Ghana?
- Ghana was the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence from colonial rule.
- The country is home to Lake Volta, the largest man-made lake in the world.
- Ghana is known for its delicious cuisine, including jollof rice, fufu, and banku.
What are the people from Ghana called?
People from Ghana are called Ghanaians.
Is it safe to live in Ghana?
Ghana is generally considered a safe country to live in, with a low crime rate and a welcoming culture.
10. Guinea
Guinea gained its independence from France on October 2, 1958, making it one of the oldest countries in Africa.
Is guinea a rich or poor country
Guinea is one of the poorest countries in the world, with a GDP per capita of $912 (2021). It faces challenges such as poverty, corruption, and political instability.
What is Guinea Famous for?
Guinea is famous for several things, including:
- Bauxite: Guinea has the world’s largest reserves of bauxite, which is used to make aluminum.
- Music and Dance: Guinea is known for its rich music and dance culture, including the traditional West African dance form known as “djembe.”
- Coffee: Guinea produces high-quality coffee that is highly sought after by connoisseurs.
The Four Countries Called Guinea
There are four countries in Africa that have “Guinea” in their names – Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, and Papua New Guinea.