The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has recorded the most significant percentage increase in military spending worldwide in 2023, as it grapples with the presence of M23 rebels in the eastern part of the country. According to the latest Trends in World Military Expenditure 2023 report, the DRC’s spending has more than doubled (105%) to reach $794 million.
This substantial increase in military expenditure coincides with rising tensions with Rwanda, a surge in clashes with non-state armed groups, and the government’s aim to bolster the DRC’s armed forces. The DRC is home to an estimated 200 militias, known as the “mai mai,” along with armed outfits such as the Lord’s Resistance Army, which launches attacks into Uganda, and the Red Tabara rebels, which seeks to destabilize Burundi.
South Sudan follows the DRC in terms of percentage increase in military spending, with a 78% surge to over a billion American dollars. This increase is attributed to escalating internal violence and security challenges spilling over from the civil war in neighboring Sudan. A report by the UN Mission in South Sudan (Unmiss) from March 2024 indicated that intercommunal violence perpetrated by community-based militias or civil defense groups accounted for 86% of civilian casualties.
Nigeria remains a significant military spender in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a 20% increase against the backdrop of ongoing security challenges. Overall, countries in sub-Saharan Africa have increased their military spending by 8.9% compared to 2022, although this figure is 22% lower than in 2014.
North African countries have witnessed a 38% jump in defense spending, with Algeria and Morocco accounting for 82% of the total expenditure in the sub-region. Algeria’s increased interest in its gas reserves by European countries moving away from Russian purchases has boosted its capacity to invest in military equipment. Morocco’s military spending, though decreased, remains substantial.
Despite lagging behind the rest of the world in military spending, Africa experienced a 22% increase last year compared to 2022.
