Africa is young. Why are its leaders so old?

By David E Kiwuwa

Updated 1435 GMT (2235 HKT) October 29, 2015

Yoweri Museveni, President of Uganda, has been in power since 1986.
Photos: Africa's aging leaders
Yoweri Museveni, President of Uganda, has been in power since 1986.
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President of Zimbabwe Robert Mugabe is 91 years old, and gained power in 1987. His rule has been highly controversial. He once won the top prize in a lottery organized by a state-owned bank, among other things. His heir apparent is close ally and Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa, nicknamed 'Crocodile'.
Photos: Africa's aging leaders
Robert Mugabe, 91 – President of Zimbabwe Robert Mugabe is 91 years old, and gained power in 1987. His rule has been highly controversial. He once won the top prize in a lottery organized by a state-owned bank, among other things. His heir apparent is close ally and Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa, nicknamed 'Crocodile'.
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Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi is 88. His presidency follows a term as Prime Minister, a role he took following the revolution in the country which sparked the Arab Uprising across the Middle East.
Photos: Africa's aging leaders
Beji Caid Essebsi, 88 – Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi is 88. His presidency follows a term a