10 Oldest Countries in Africa: The First Nations of the Continent

Africa is the birthplace of humanity and home to some of the oldest civilizations in the world. While many African countries gained independence in the 1900s, some countries have a much longer history as organised nations or ancient kingdoms.

Let’s see the oldest countries in Africa, including the first country in Africa and Africa’s oldest independent country.

🏛️ 1. Ethiopia – Africa’s Oldest Independent Country

• Founded: Over 2,000 years ago

• Independence: Never colonised (except Italian occupation 1936–1941)

Ethiopia is widely known as Africa’s oldest independent country. It has a history that goes back over 2,000 years. The ancient Kingdom of Aksum, which began around 100 AD, was located in what is now Ethiopia. Aksum was a powerful kingdom known for trade, architecture, and early Christianity.

Even during the colonial era, Ethiopia was never officially colonized by a European power. Italy tried to colonize it but was defeated in the Battle of Adwa in 1896. Although Italy briefly occupied Ethiopia during World War II, it was not long-term colonization. Ethiopia remained sovereign and is a symbol of African pride.

🔗 Learn more about Ethiopia’s history – Britannica

🏛️ 2. Egypt – One of the World’s Oldest Civilizations

• Founded: Around 3100 BC (Ancient Egypt)

• Modern independence: 1922 from British rule

Egypt is one of the oldest civilisations in the world, with history dating back over 5,000 years. Ancient Egypt gave the world pyramids, writing systems (hieroglyphics), and great rulers like Pharaohs. The civilization along the Nile River is considered a foundation of world history.

However, Egypt lost its independence during colonisation by different empires (Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and British). It gained modern independence in 1922 and is one of the most developed countries in Africa.

🏛️ 3. Liberia – First Independent Republic in Africa (Modern Era)

• Founded: 1847

• Colonisation: Never colonized by Europe

Liberia is known as the first modern independent republic in Africa. It was founded in the 1800s by formerly enslaved Africans from the United States who returned to settle in West Africa. Liberia declared its independence in 1847, long before many African countries became free.

While Liberia was supported by the U.S., it was never officially colonized by any European nation.

🏛️ 4. Morocco – Ancient Kingdom with Early Independence

• Kingdom since: 788 AD

• Modern independence: 1956 (from France and Spain)

Morocco is one of the oldest kingdoms in Africa. The Idrisid Dynasty started in 788 AD, and Morocco has had royal rule ever since. Though it became a French and Spanish protectorate in the early 1900s, it regained its full independence in 1956.

🏛️ 5. Tunisia – Ancient Carthage and Early Civilization

• Ancient history: Carthage founded in 814 BC

• Modern independence: 1956

Tunisia was once home to Carthage, one of the most powerful cities in ancient times, known for its wars with Rome. Carthage existed long before the Roman Empire. Today, Tunisia is a modern country, but its roots go back thousands of years.

🏛️ 6. Sudan – Home to Ancient Nubia

• Ancient history: Kingdom of Nubia (2500 BC)

• Modern independence: 1956 (from Britain and Egypt)

Sudan was home to the Kingdom of Kush, also known as Nubia, which was a neighbour and sometimes rival of ancient Egypt. It had black African Pharaohs, powerful armies, and large temples. Today, Sudan’s history is linked to both Arab and African cultures.

🏛️ 7. Libya – Land of Ancient Berbers and Greeks

• Ancient cities: Tripoli and Cyrene (over 2,500 years old)

• Modern independence: 1951

Libya was home to ancient Berber tribes and later hosted Greek and Roman settlements. It has some of the oldest cities in North Africa. Libya gained independence from Italy and became a kingdom in 1951.

🏛️ 8. Algeria – Ancient Berber Civilisations and Independence in 1962

• Ancient roots: Numidian Kingdoms (200 BC)

• Modern independence: 1962 (from France)

Algeria’s history goes back to ancient Berber empires and Roman rule. It later became part of the Arab world and was colonized by France. After a long and painful war, it gained independence in 1962. It is one of the biggest countries in Africa by Landmass.

🏛️ 9. Ghana – Home of Ancient West African Kingdoms

• Ancient Ghana Empire: 300–1200 AD (different location)

• Modern Ghana: Independence in 1957

Ghana (modern-day country) got its name from the ancient Ghana Empire, which was located in present-day Mali and Mauritania. The modern country of Ghana became the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence from British rule in 1957.

🏛️ 10. Mali – Empire of Mansa Musa

• Mali Empire: 1235–1600 AD

• Modern Mali: Independence in 1960

The Mali Empire was one of the richest and most powerful African kingdoms, especially under Mansa Musa, who is said to be the richest man in history. The empire had famous cities like Timbuktu, a center of learning. Modern Mali became independent in 1960.

📝 Summary of Africa’s Oldest Nations

✅ Final Thoughts

Africa is not only the birthplace of humans, but also home to some of the oldest kingdoms and civilizations in the world. Countries like Ethiopia and Egypt have thousands of years of history and have influenced the world in religion, science, trade, and culture.

Some nations stayed independent, while others had to fight for their freedom in the 1900s. Today, Africa’s old nations are still full of life, strength, and pride.