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From Sudan to Guinea-Bissau, the persistent pattern of military interventions reveals deep-seated governance challenges across Africa, where power has often changed hands through force rather than ballots.

According to historical data compiled by research bodies and international observers, Africa has experienced more coups than any other region, with about 45 of 54 countries reporting at least one attempted government overthrow since 1950.

Countries with Multiple Coups:​

  1. Sudan – Over 17 attempts since 1956
  2. Burkina Faso – 1980, 1982, 1983, 2015, 2022
  3. Mali – 1968, 1991, 2012, 2020, 2021
  4. Niger – 1996, 1999, 2010, 2023
  5. Guinea – 1984, 2008, 2021
  6. Nigeria – Series of coups from 1966-1993
  7. Ghana – 1966, 1972, 1978, 1981
  8. Mauritania – 1978, 1984, 2005, 2008
  9. Central African Republic – 1965, 1981, 2003, 2013
  10. Burundi – 1966, 1976, 1996

Countries with Notable Single/Recent Coups:​

  1. Guinea-Bissau – 2025 (latest)
  2. Gabon – 2023
  3. Chad – 1990, 2021
  4. Egypt – 1952, 2013
  5. Zimbabwe – 2017
  6. Libya – 1969
  7. Sierra Leone – 1967, 1968, 1992
  8. Togo – 1963, 1967
  9. Angola – Attempted coups in the 1970s
This list represents nations where military interventions have significantly altered political trajectories, highlighting how coups remain a recurring feature of governance across the continent.

Sources: Historical Research Data, International Observers, Vanguard, Tribune