As we look forward to the African Military Games 2024, let’s take a sneak peek into Africa’s military forces.
Africa hosts some of the world’s most strategic and capable military forces. These rankings reflect various factors, including defence budgets, military hardware, personnel strength, and operational capability.
Based on these metrics, here is an overview of the top 20 military forces in Africa as of the latest data.
Egypt – With the largest army in Africa, Egypt boasts advanced military hardware, substantial personnel, and a strong air and naval fleet. It also receives foreign military aid, primarily from the U.S.
Algeria – Known for its substantial military spending, Algeria has a well-equipped force with advanced Russian-made tanks, fighter jets, and submarines, as well as an established domestic defence industry.
South Africa – A leader in defence technology, South Africa has advanced military infrastructure, though its personnel numbers are lower compared to Egypt and Algeria.
Nigeria – Africa’s most populous country has a sizeable army and a formidable air force and naval capability, focusing on internal security, counter-terrorism efforts and peace-keeping efforts.
Morocco – Morocco’s military is well-equipped with advanced tanks, aircraft, and a growing navy. Its military also benefits from strong ties with Western allies.
Ethiopia – With one of Africa’s largest active-duty forces, Ethiopia has a large infantry presence with around 200,000 personnel, supplemented by a large reserve force.
Angola – Angola’s military strength is backed by a substantial defence budget and modern equipment, much of it from Russia and China.
Sudan – Sudan has a large army with strong capabilities in terms of personnel, though it has faced challenges in terms of modernization and equipment.
Kenya – Known for its discipline and regional peacekeeping roles, Kenya’s military is highly respected, with advanced training and equipment, especially in counter-terrorism.
Tunisia – Tunisia has a relatively small but well-equipped and professional military, focusing mainly on border security and counter-terrorism.
Uganda – Uganda has a capable army with strong involvement in regional peacekeeping efforts, particularly in Somalia under the African Union Mission.
Chad – Known for its battle-hardened troops, Chad has a strong regional influence and has played a significant role in fighting terrorism in the Sahel.
Libya – Libya’s military strength has been diminished by ongoing conflict, but various factions have access to significant weaponry and equipment.
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – Despite ongoing internal conflicts, the DRC has one of Africa’s largest military forces, though it faces challenges in training and equipment.
Ivory Coast – With recent modernization efforts, the Ivorian military has seen improvements in capabilities and organization.
Cameroon – The Cameroon Armed Forces is among the most organized and structured in Central Africa, with units across the army, air force, and navy.
Zimbabwe – Despite economic challenges, Zimbabwe’s military remains well-organized with experienced personnel.
Tanzania – Tanzania has a moderately sized, well-trained military with a focus on border security and regional stability.
Ghana – Known for its professionalism and peacekeeping efforts, Ghana’s military is respected across the continent.
Senegal – Senegal has a capable military focused on peacekeeping and regional stability, with strong support from France and other Western nations.