10 Things You Need to Know About the Longest-Serving African President

Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo

Africa is a continent with many countries and leaders. Some of these leaders have been in power for a very long time. They have seen many changes and challenges in their countries and the world.

But who is the longest-serving African president? And what are some of the things you need to know about him? Here are 10 facts that will answer these questions.

10 Must-Know Things About the Longest-Serving African President

1. Record-setting Tenure: The longest-serving African president is Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea. He has been in power since *1979*, making him the longest-serving president in the world. He is also the second longest-serving non-royal leader in the world, after Paul Biya of Cameroon
2. History and Rise to Power: Obiang ascended to power by overthrowing his uncle, Francisco Macias Nguema, who was a dictator responsible for grave atrocities. His presidency began after Equatorial Guinea gained independence from Spain in 1968.
3. Personal Background: Born in 1942, Obiang hails from the Fang ethnic group, a prominent and influential community in Equatorial Guinea.
4. Family and Political Dynasty: Married to Constancia Mangue Nsue Okomo, who holds the title of First Lady, Obiang has several children and grandchildren involved in both politics and business. His son, Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, serves as the vice president and heir apparent.
5. Political Power and Allegations of Election Rigging: He leads the Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea and consistently secures victory in elections amid claims of manipulation and non-transparency. Allegations of using violence and coercion to retain power are prevalent.
6. Wealth and Corruption Allegations: Accusations of corruption and embezzlement of the nation’s oil riches have shadowed Obiang’s regime. Despite Equatorial Guinea’s oil wealth, a majority of its citizens struggle with poverty and inadequate basic services.
7. Influence and International Relations: Obiang wields significant influence, leading the African Union and hosting prominent international events in Equatorial Guinea. His amicable relations with various African and global leaders, including Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping, and Donald Trump, underscore his international reach.
8. Religious Conviction and Charitable Endeavors: He upholds strong religious beliefs, actively supporting and contributing to churches, mosques, and charitable causes. Claiming to be chosen by God as the president, he asserts himself as a prophetic figure.
9. Multilingual and Cultural Enthusiast: Proficient in Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Fang, the official languages of Equatorial Guinea, Obiang values the nation’s culture, endorsing arts, music, and literature.
10. Author and Visionary: His book, “My Life and My Country,” offers insight into his life, ideology, and vision for the future of Equatorial Guinea.

These are some of the things you need to know about the longest-serving African president, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.

He is a very interesting and controversial person who has done many good and bad things for his country and the world. What do you think of him? Do you like him or not? Share your opinion with me in the comments.