National security is critical for all countries, prompting investments in robust armed forces to safeguard borders, repel threats, and influence global affairs.
Reserve military soldiers play an important role in national defense, while receiving less attention than active military forces with superior equipment.
Reserve military members have undergone military training and are available for activation as needed, but do not serve full-time.
These individuals are critical at times of emergency, conflict, or when active troops require additional support. Their principal value is that they provide a rapid response capability, which improves a country’s defense without the continuous costs of a big standing army.According to Global Firepower’s 2024 index, which evaluates 145 countries’ reserve military manpower,
Here are the top five African countries with the biggest reserve forces:
1. Egypt
Reserve Personnel: 480,000
Global Rank: 15th
Egypt’s strategic position as a major participant in Middle Eastern politics needs a large reserve army. The country’s military is critical in protecting its borders from regional instability and taking an active role in international peacekeeping.
2. Morocco
Reserve Personnel: 150,000
Global Rank: 32nd
Morocco’s reserve forces play a crucial role in ensuring national defense and security in the volatile North African region. The reserves assist the active military in maintaining the integrity of its borders and conducting anti-terrorism operations.
3. Algeria
Reserve Personnel: 135,000
Global Rank: 34th
Algeria has a long history of military preparedness, owing to its continual need for stability and security in the face of regional threats. Algerian reserve forces play an important role in supporting active troops, particularly in large-scale desert operations and border protection.
4. Eritrea
Reserve Personnel: 130,000
Global Rank: 37th
Eritrea’s geopolitical concerns with bordering countries need a robust reserve force. The country’s military plan includes significant training for both active and reserve personnel to maintain readiness during times of crisis.
5. Sudan
Reserve Personnel: 85,000
Global Rank: 47th
Sudan’s reserve forces are critical in national defense and internal security activities, particularly in the face of persistent internal disputes and tensions with neighboring governments.
