Defence is crucial for the survival and security of nations. In Africa, countries are increasing their defence budgets and adopting advanced technologies to safeguard the continent’s territorial integrity.
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), global military expenditure reached $2,443 billion in 2023, marking a 6.8 per cent increase in real terms from 2022. This was the most significant year-on-year rise since 2009. The top ten spenders in 2023 were led by the United States, China, and Russia, all of which saw increases in their military budgets.
Nan Tian, Senior Researcher at SIPRI’s Military Expenditure and Arms Production Programme, stated, “The unprecedented rise in military spending is a direct response to the global decline in peace and security. States are prioritising their military strength, but given the unstable geopolitical and security environment, they risk an action-reaction spiral.”
National security is vital for economic prosperity and development. Therefore, it is essential for African nations to allocate substantial budgets to support their defence capabilities and arsenal.
African countries are enhancing their air combat capabilities and expanding their fighter fleets to address modern challenges in warfare and ensure the safety of their populations.
Below are the ten African countries with the highest defence budgets in 2024, according to Global Firepower, an organisation that monitors annual defence spending globally:
Algeria
Defence budget: $21,600,000,000
Global Rank: 22
Morocco
Defence budget: $12,088,000,000
Global Rank: 29
Egypt
Defence budget: $9,400,000,000
Global Rank: 35
Nigeria
Defence budget: $4,000,000,000
Global Rank: 56
Libya
Defence budget: $3,400,000,000
Global Rank: 59
South Africa
Defence budget: $2,695,346,150
Global Rank: 64
Kenya
Defence budget: $2,200,000,000
Global Rank: 70
Tanzania
Defence budget: $1,870,000,000
Global Rank: 73
Botswana
Defence budget: $1,642,009,600
Global Rank: 74
Angola
Defence budget: $1,623,000,000
Global Rank: 75
As the global security environment evolves, African nations are actively enhancing their defence capacities. By increasing military spending, modernising their armed forces, and investing in advanced technology, these countries are maintaining economic growth, fostering regional stability, and preserving their sovereignty.
