Why the beautiful island is the only African country without a standing army

godfred akoto

October 31, 2017 10:34 AM

The tourist haven leaves the job to the police

Africa and its long history of conflicts since the 50's means that several countries have established armed forces to defend its borders and handle internal insurgencies.

The military might of countries like Egypt, the DRC,Ghana and Nigeria among others adds to a long of African states who have equipped standing armies.

All but one.

The island state of Mauritius is the exception to the rule.

To clarify, what the term "country" here means sovereign states and not dependencies , whose defense is the responsibility of another country or an army alternative. The term "armed forces" refers to any government-sponsored defense used to further the domestic and foreign policies of their respective government.

Mauritius has not had a standing army since 1968 when it gained independence. Unlike its sister, Seychelles which has set up an 800 member standing force, all military, police, and security functions are carried out by 10,000 active duty personnel under the command of the Commissioner of Police.

The 8,000 member National Police Force is responsible for domestic law enforcement. There is also a 1,500 member Special Mobile Force, and a 500-member National Coast Guard, which are both considered paramilitary units.

godfred akoto