Tanzania has emerged as the fastest-growing military power in Africa, ranking 9th globally, according to the Global Firepower Index. The country's Power Index score of 2.0416 places it ahead of other African nations, with Cameroon, South Sudan, Namibia, and Niger following closely behind. This surge in military strength is part of a broader trend across the continent, where many countries are prioritizing advanced training, acquiring sophisticated weaponry, and fostering regional collaborations to enhance their capabilities.

The Global Firepower Index, which assesses military strength based on various factors including manpower, equipment, logistics, finances, and geography, highlights Africa's growing military prowess. The defence landscape is marked by rapid modernization, increasing investments in technology, and the restructuring of armed forces to address evolving security challenges. Although still playing catch-up compared to western countries, several African countries are making major military advances.

In the Powers on the Rise (2025) annual defence review, which highlights countries with rapidly growing military capabilities, Africa has made a significant mark with 9 of the 19 featured nations coming from the continent. This growth is driven by a range of factors, including the need to address regional security challenges, protect national interests, and project power on the global stage.

Tanzania's emergence as the fastest-growing military power in Africa is a significant development, given the country's strategic location and growing economic influence. The country's military modernization efforts are likely to have far-reaching implications for regional security and cooperation. Cameroon, which ranks second on the list, has also made significant strides in enhancing its military capabilities, with a Power Index score of 2.0501.

South Sudan, despite facing significant challenges, has made notable progress in building its military strength, ranking 12th globally with a score of 2.4321. Other African countries, including Namibia, Niger, Republic of Congo, Botswana, Mauritania, and Senegal, are also investing heavily in their military capabilities, driving growth and modernization across the continent.

This trend is likely to have significant implications for regional security, economic development, and global geopolitics. As African countries continue to enhance their military capabilities, they will be better positioned to address regional security challenges, protect their national interests, and play a more prominent role on the global stage.

For more information on the fastest-growing military powers in Africa, visit the Global Firepower website. To stay up-to-date on the latest developments in African defence and security, follow Business Insider Africa's defence and security coverage.