A wave of military takeovers has swept across Africa in the last five years, bringing the total number of coups to 10. From Mali’s double coups starting in 2020 to Madagascar’s 2025 military ouster, the continent continues to grapple with political instability, extremist threats and failed transitions.
Elections have been delayed or suspended in several affected nations, while some juntas have consolidated their rule through extended mandates. The trend raises concerns over democratic backsliding across the region.
COUNTRIES AND YEARS OF COUPS
1. Mali — 2020 & 2021
President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita is overthrown in August 2020.
Military takes over again in May 2021, with Colonel Assimi Goita becoming transitional president.
2. Guinea — 2021
Mutinous troops led by Mamady Doumbouya topple President Alpha Conde on September 5, 2021.
3. Sudan — 2021
Abdel Fattah al-Burhan leads a coup on October 25, 2021, ending the power-sharing arrangement with civilians.
4. Burkina Faso — 2022 (January & September)
January: Soldiers led by Paul-Henri Damiba oust President Roch Marc Christian Kabore.
September: Another group of officers removes Damiba and installs Captain Ibrahim Traore.
5. Niger — 2023
Presidential guard units overthrow President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26, 2023.
6. Gabon — 2023
Army officers depose President Ali Bongo Ondimba on August 30, 2023 after a disputed election.
7. Madagascar — 2025
Military removes President Andry Rajoelina in October 2025 following mass anti-government protests.
8. Guinea-Bissau — 2025