Which landlocked country is Africa’s most populous nation?

Ethiopia is Africa’s most populous landlocked country.

Located in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia has a population exceeding 120 million, making it one of Africa’s demographic giants. It lost its coastline when Eritrea became independent in 1993, leaving Ethiopia landlocked. The country’s population is concentrated especially in the highlands and major urban areas.

Ethiopia has a distinctive political history. It was one of the few African countries to retain sovereignty during the European colonial period, although Italy occupied it from 1936 to 1941. Addis Ababa, founded in 1886, is the capital and a major diplomatic centre.

The country is sometimes confused with Eritrea because both were once part of the same political entity. Eritrea now has a Red Sea coast, while Ethiopia depends on neighbouring countries, especially Djibouti, for most sea access.