The African startup ecosystem has been growing rapidly in recent years, with many countries experiencing significant economic growth and innovation. However, a recent report by Powell and Thyne reveals a disturbing trend that could threaten this progress: a surge in coup plots across the continent.

Since 1950, Africa has seen 214 attempted coups, with 106 being successful and 108 failing. This makes Africa the region with the highest number of coup attempts globally, accounting for nearly 40% of all attempted coups worldwide.

The top 10 African countries with the most number of attempted coup plots since 1950 are Sudan, Burundi, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, Benin, Nigeria, and Mali. These countries have experienced a total of 93 attempted coups, with 44 being successful.

The implications of this trend are far-reaching and could have a significant impact on the startup ecosystem in Africa. Political instability and uncertainty can create an unfavorable business environment, making it difficult for startups to operate and attract investment. Moreover, coups can lead to human rights violations, unrest, and economic instability, which can stifle innovation and entrepreneurship.

The African Union Peace and Security Council has acknowledged the problem, attributing it to "deficiencies in governance" and "greed, selfishness, mismanagement of diversity, mismanagement of opportunity, marginalization, abuse of human rights, refusal to accept electoral defeat, manipulation of constitution[s], as well as unconstitutional review of constitution[s] to serve narrow interests and corruption."

As the African startup ecosystem continues to grow, it is essential for entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers to be aware of this trend and work towards creating a more stable and conducive environment for innovation and economic growth.S