Africa has experienced a disproportionate number of coups since 1950, with approximately seven out of every ten globally occurring on the continent. Research by Jonathan Powell and Clayton Thyne highlights that nearly three-quarters of all coups since 2000 have taken place in former French colonies. Across the continent, 45 nations have endured at least one attempted or successful government overthrow, underscoring a persistent challenge to stability and democratic governance.
Burkina Faso stands out with ten coups, including two in 2022 alone. Notable upheavals include the 1987 assassination of Thomas Sankara during a violent power struggle, and the 2014 ousting of Blaise Compaoré after his attempt to extend his rule. The nation continues to grapple with widespread insecurity, particularly from jihadist insurgencies, following these periods of political instability.
Sierra Leone has witnessed seven successful coups, stemming from a history of military intervention amidst internal divisions. The 1967 coup, which overthrew Siaka Stevens shortly after his election victory, plunged the country into uncertainty and cemented the military’s role in politics. Another devastating coup occurred in 1997, led by Johnny Paul Koroma, which plunged the capital, Freetown, into chaos for months.
Uganda has endured seven coups, beginning with Milton Obote’s 1966 action that abolished monarchical and federal systems. This was followed by Idi Amin Dada’s 1971 coup, which led to a brutal regime that was eventually overthrown during a conflict with Tanzania. Further instability saw Obote ousted again in 1985, paving the way for Yoweri Museveni’s rise to power in 1986 after a civil war.
Mauritania has faced six coups since 1987, alongside numerous unsuccessful attempts. The first occurred in 1978, ending the rule of Moktar Ould Daddah, who had been in power since independence. The most recent coup took place in 2008, when military leaders, including Abdel Aziz, overthrew President Sidi Mohamed Ould Cheikh Abdallahi, less than two years after a return to civilian rule.
Sudan holds the record for the most coup attempts in Africa, with 17 since 1952, though only six were successful. These overthrows have often been driven by internal conflicts, political divisions, and economic collapse, facilitating military ascensions to power. The nation has experienced prolonged periods of military rule, hindering democratic transitions and exacerbating ongoing security and political crises.
Burundi has experienced five coups since gaining independence from Belgium in 1962, frequently linked to ethnic tensions between Hutu and Tutsi populations and power struggles within the military. These coups have consistently plunged the nation into instability, negatively impacting its economic development and the establishment of robust democratic institutions.
Mali has undergone five coups since its independence from France in 1960, a consequence of persistent political turmoil. Key events include the 1968 overthrow of Modibo Keita and the 1991 removal of Moussa Traoré. More recently, Captain Amadou Sanogo’s 2012 coup preceded a severe security crisis, and Colonel Assimi Goïta led two coups in quick succession in 2020 and 2021.
Niger has faced five coups since 1974, triggered by political unrest, protests, and military pressure. The first occurred in 1974, ousting President Hamani Diori. The most recent coup on July 26, 2023, saw General Abdourahamane Tchiani seize power from President Mohamed Bazoum amidst rising security challenges.
Nigeria has experienced five coups since gaining independence in 1960, with military rule dominating between 1966 and 1999, save for a brief democratic interlude. The first coup in 1966, led by Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu, resulted in the overthrow and assassination of political leaders, sparking ethnic tensions. The last coup occurred in 1993, with a return to multi-party democracy in 1999.
Guinea-Bissau, a small West African nation, has endured four coups since its independence, reflecting a history of political instability. Military intervention has been a recurring feature of its power dynamics, impeding democratic progress and development. The most recent coup in November 2025 highlights the persistent political volatility in the country.
