Africa’s political landscape continues to be shaped by experienced leaders—many of whom have served their countries for decades. While the executive often takes the spotlight, the legislative arm of government plays a crucial role in policymaking, governance, and oversight. In particular, Senate presidents wield significant influence in guiding legislative priorities.
But as Africa’s leadership ages, questions continue to arise about the balance between experience and generational renewal. Should leaders well beyond retirement age still be at the helm of key institutions? Or is it time to pave the way for younger voices?
In collaboration with the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), we’ve compiled a list of Africa’s top 10 oldest Senate presidents, showcasing just how age and leadership continue to intertwine across the continent.
🏆 Africa’s Top 10 Oldest Senate Presidents (2025)
| S/N | Country | Chamber | Full Name | Sex | Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cameroon | Senate | Marcel Niat Njifenji | Male | 91 |
| 2 | Gabon | Transitional Senate | Paulette Missambo | Female | 76 |
| 3 | Republic of Congo | Senate | Pierre Ngolo | Male | 71 |
| 4 | Equatorial Guinea | Senate | María Teresa Efua Asangono | Female | 68 |
| 5 | Zimbabwe | Senate | Mabel M. Chinomona | Female | 67 |
| 6 | Madagascar | Senate | Richard Ravalomanana | Male | 66 |
| 7 | Côte d’Ivoire | Senate | Kandia Kamissoko Camara | Female | 66 |
| 8 | Rwanda | Senate | François-Xavier Kalinda | Male | 63 |
| 9 | Nigeria | Senate | Godswill Akpabio | Male | 63 |
| 10 | Eswatini | Senate | Lindiwe Dlamini | Female | 60 |
👴🏽 Wisdom vs. Renewal: The Age Debate in African Politics
Leading the list is Cameroon’s Marcel Niat Njifenji, an enduring figure in African politics at the remarkable age of 91. His continued leadership exemplifies the value placed on institutional memory and political stability.
He is followed by Paulette Missambo of Gabon (76), who presides over the country’s Transitional Senate, and Pierre Ngolo of Congo (71), both of whom bring extensive political experience to the table.
Interestingly, the list shows a relatively balanced gender representation, with notable women such as María Teresa Efua Asangono (Equatorial Guinea), Mabel Chinomona (Zimbabwe), and Kandia Camara (Côte d’Ivoire) all holding influential positions well into their 60s.
🔎 The Bigger Picture
The conversation around leadership age isn’t unique to Africa. Around the world, some of the oldest parliamentarians remain active. For instance:
- Salah Goudjil (94) leads Algeria’s Council of the Nation.
- Augusto Gómez Villanueva (95) represents Mexico City in the Mexican National Assembly.
- Guillermo García Frías (97) still serves in Cuba’s National Assembly.
Their longevity in office reflects both personal endurance and the trust their nations place in experienced leadership.
🗣️ A Call for Balance
Despite the advantages of seasoned leadership, there is growing pressure across Africa for generational renewal. Many analysts argue that fresh perspectives are essential for innovation, inclusivity, and long-term democratic health. Youth inclusion remains a hot topic, especially as Africa continues to be home to the world’s youngest population.
Yet, the continued presence of older leaders in Senate roles highlights an enduring tension in African governance—how to balance tradition with transformation.
Final Thoughts
While critics argue for younger, more digitally native leaders, these elder statesmen and women bring a wealth of knowledge and continuity that can’t be overlooked. The challenge moving forward is not just about replacing old with new, but creating systems that foster mentorship, inclusivity, and strategic succession planning.
Whether for or against senior political leadership, one thing is certain: Africa’s future will be shaped by how it chooses to bridge its past experience with future ambition.
