10 African countries with the lowest defence budget in 2024

The correlation between security and economic progress is undeniable. Without a secure environment, sustainable development is nearly impossible. Hence, the defence of lives and properties remains a fundamental responsibility of every country globally.

Africa is a large continent with a wide range of security needs and economic capabilities across its 54 countries. As a result, defence budgets vary significantly from one country to another.

For instance, countries facing immediate security threats or ongoing conflicts prioritize defence spending to ensure national security and stability. Also, wealthier countries with stronger economies can afford higher defence budgets.

Earlier, we examined African countries with the highest defence budgets in 2024. Based on the Global Firepower’s assessment, Algeria, with a defence budget of $21.6 billion, holds the 22nd position globally. Morocco and Egypt closely follow, securing the 29th and 35th positions on the global scale.

The index ranks 145 countries’ militaries, weighing various factors like the volume of sophistication of its equipment, finances, geography, and resources.

The report monitored funds allocated by governments to cover various aspects of a standing fighting force namely procurement, maintenance/support, and pensions. Data presented on the list is through 2024.

According to the report, Liberia has the smallest defence budget at $12,000,000, ranking 144th globally. The Central African Republic comes in at 139th with $41,454,000, and Benin is 138th with $75,000,000.