List of father-son duos who have served as presidents in Africa

These familial successions are not just tales of power inheritance; they are intricate narratives of legacy, vision, and the enduring quest for continuity in leadership amidst Africa's evolving political milieu.

From Kenya's corridors of power to the dynamic political arenas of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Chad, Botswana, Togo, and Gabon, these father-son duos have governed, shaped policies, and navigated the complexities of African governance.

Father-son duos who have served as presidents in Africa

1. Mzee Jomo Kenyatta & Uhuru Kenyatta – Kenya

Kenya's political scene has been significantly influenced by the Kenyatta family. Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, known as the founding father of the nation, led Kenya to independence from British colonial rule in 1963 and served as the country's first President until he died in 1978.

Decades later, his legacy continued through his son, Uhuru Kenyatta, who became the fourth President of Kenya in 2013.

Uhuru's leadership which ended in 2022, was marked by a focus on infrastructure development and digital innovation.

From left: Kenya's 1st President Mzee Jomo Kenyatta & his son Uhuru Kenyatta, the 3rd President of Kenyan Pulse Live Kenya

2. Laurent Kabila & Joseph Kabila – DRC

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) witnessed the rise of Laurent Kabila, who seized power in 1997, ending Mobutu Sese Seko's long-standing dictatorship.

His tenure was cut short when he was assassinated in 2001, paving the way for his son, Joseph Kabila, to take over.

Joseph Kabila's presidency, which lasted until 2019, was characterized by efforts to bring stability to a nation plagued by conflict, though his time in office was also marked by controversies over election delays and governance issues.

Former DRC presidents Laurent Kabila & his son Joseph Kabila Pulse Live Kenya

3. Idris Deby Itno & Mahat Idris Deby – Chad

In Chad, Idris Deby Itno emerged as a pivotal figure, ruling the country from 1990 until he died in 2021.

Following his demise, his son, Mahamat Idris Deby, was named interim President by a transitional council.

This transition highlighted the military's role in Chad's political sphere and raised questions about the future of governance and democracy in the country.

CHad's 1st President Idris Deby Itno & his son Mahat Idris Deby, the 2nd President of Chad Pulse Live Kenya

4. Seretse Khama & son Ian Khama – Botswana

Botswana's political narrative has been significantly shaped by the Khama family. Seretse Khama, the nation's first President, is revered for his leadership and principles that guided Botswana to prosperity and stability from 1966 to 1980.

His son, Ian Khama, continued his father's legacy, serving as President from 2008 to 2018.

Ian's tenure was marked by a focus on economic development and conservation efforts, maintaining Botswana's status as one of Africa's most stable democracies.

Former Presidents of Botswana, Seretse Khama & his son Ian Khama Pulse Live Kenya

5. Gnassingbe Eyadema & son Faure Gnassingbe - Togo

Togo presents another example of political succession within a family. Gnassingbe Eyadema ruled Togo with an iron fist for 38 years until he died in 2005.

His son, Faure Gnassingbe, succeeded him, continuing the family's grip on power.

Faure's leadership has been characterised by both efforts toward modernization and criticisms regarding electoral processes and governance practices.