This is a list of reigning non-sovereign monarchs in Africa, including traditional rulers and governing constitutional monarchs, but not the kings of Lesotho, Morocco and Eswatini. Each monarch listed below reigns over a legally recognised dominion located internally within a sovereign state, but in most cases possess little or no sovereign governing power themselves. Their titles, however, are recognised by the state. Entries are listed beside their respective dominions, and are grouped by country.
The roles, powers, and influence of non-sovereign monarchs throughout Africa vary greatly depending on the state. In some states, such as Angola, the local king may play an integral role in the local governing council of a region, such is the case with the king of Bailundo, or on a smaller level, such as many of the Fons of Cameroon, they may be seen as leaders or heads of a particular town, settlement, or village.[1] They are often regarded as custodians of tradition and culture, and in some cases, play an important role in local religious activities (such as in Benin, where some of the kings double as heads of Vodun cults and are believed to have spiritual powers).[2] [3]
Their relationship with the national government of which their respective realm sits within can be complex. Particularly influential monarchs are often sought after by local politicians and elected leaders for support,[4] [5] while others have contentious relationships with their national governments. In some cases, the national government has stepped in to curtail the influence of non-sovereign monarchs (such as when Chadian government suspended the powers of the Ouaddai sultan in 2022, or when the emir of Kano was deposed by the regional government).[6] [7]
Polity | Title | Monarch | Since | Succession | Refs | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bailundo | King/Soma inene | Tchongolola Tchongonga Ekuikui VI | 2021 | [8] [9] | ||||
Cuito | King | Bingo Bingo | Hereditary | [10] | ||||
Baixa de Cassanje | Dianhenga Aspirante Mjinji Kulaxingo | Hereditary | [11] | |||||
Huambo (Wambu) | King | Artur Moço | [12] [13] | |||||
Manikongo | Mfumu Mukongo Afonso Méndes | Hereditary | ||||||
Lunda-Tchokwe | Mwene | Muatchissengue Wa Tembo / José Estêvão | Hereditary | [14] | ||||
Luvale | Queen | Nhakatole Chilombo Tchissengo | 2004 | Nhakatole | Hereditary | [15] | ||
Mbunda | Mwene | Mbandu III Mbandu Lifuti | 2008 | Hereditary | ||||
Ndongo | Ngola | Buba Nvula Dala Mana Cabombo | Hereditary | [16] | ||||
Ombada yo Mungo | King | Zeferino Satona | [17] | |||||
Ombala ya Nalueque | King | Mário Satipamba | ||||||
Nganguela | King | Tchinhama Mwene Vunongue VIII Manuel Ndala | 2019 | Hereditary | [18] | |||
Viye | oSoma | Afonso Viti | Hereditary and elective | [19] | ||||
Zombo | King | Makitu III | 2023 | Kizulu | Matrilinear | [20] | ||
Abomey (Dahomey) | Ahosu | Dada Dèwènondè Gbéhanzin | 22 January 2022 | Aladaxonou | Hereditary and elective | [21] | ||
Abomey-Calavi | King | Kpôton Avoumbè Gbesso Allodji III | [22] | |||||
Ahouannonzoun | King | Abmomansoatin Kponan | ||||||
Akassato | King | Zounfon | [23] | |||||
Ardra | Ahosu | 2 December 1992 | Agasuvi | Hereditary | [24] | |||
Agonlin | King/Dada | Dada Agonlinhossou Yèto Kandji | 24 February 1993 | Yèto | [25] | |||
Avrankou | King/Dada | Latchèholou Guidimadjegbé | [26] [27] | |||||
Azovè | King | Aklamakou-Zokou | [28] [29] | |||||
Banikoara | King | Nasounon | ||||||
Cana | King/Dada | Langanfin Glélé Aïhotogbé | [30] | |||||
Comè | King | Togbé Akati II Djidjilévo | [31] | |||||
Dahé | King/Dada | Dada Awiyan Kokpon Houdegbe | [32] | |||||
Oba | Egbakotan II | Dassa | Hereditary | |||||
Djougou | King | Kpétoni Koda VI | [33] | |||||
Dogbo | King | Towanou II | ||||||
Ganvié | King | Houéton Ahoumbè | ||||||
Guin ethnic group in Benin | Guin Fiogan | Nii Kouété Nicoué Kpatakpatakou II | 4 October 2020 | [34] | ||||
Houégbo | King | Gbedonouzo Atchudji | ||||||
Houéyogbé | King | Agassa Adanyroh Guèdèhounguè | [35] | |||||
Ango | Amadou | 14 April 2000 | Dandaoudou | Hereditary | ||||
Kèrè | Oba | Ariy | ||||||
Oba | Alaro Alade-Ife | 17 December 2005 | Alaketu | Hereditary | ||||
Kika | King | Kika Toko Salifou Kouma | [36] | |||||
Kinto and the Houézènou people | King | Adjiwatonou Yèwa Hondogbè Kpèdo III | [37] | |||||
Kpanhouingnan | King | Aglimasse | ||||||
Kpomassè | King | Olota | [38] | |||||
Bangana | Sourou III | 28 September 2004 | Bangana | Hereditary and elective | [39] | |||
Manigri | King | Djaboutouboutou | ||||||
N'Dali | King | Daari Sounon Swanrou | [40] | |||||
Naogon | King | Dah Gandaho Kini Dégbé | [41] | |||||
Natitingou | King | Yane Sotima | [42] | |||||
Sinaboko | Chabi Naina III | 2014 | Sinaboko | Hereditary and elective | [43] | |||
Ouémé Valley | King | Signon Oba Adékiyiloumon | ||||||
King | Mito-Daho Kpassenon | Kpassè | Hereditary | |||||
Paouingnan | King | Gbèdégbé Adda Sèhoto IIII | [44] | |||||
King | Akpaki Boukou Kinnin II | 12 September 2012 | Kobourou | Hereditary and elective | [45] [46] | |||
Sinagonrigui | Kpéï Sourou | 13 August 2004 | Sinagonrigui | Hereditary | ||||
Ahosu |
| Agasuvi | Hereditary | [47] | ||||
Savé | Oba | Adetutu Akinmou Akikenju VI | Onisabe | Hereditary | ||||
Savalou | King | Dada Ganfon Gbaguidi XV | [48] | |||||
Tori-Bossito | King | Odjaka Kinidégbé Gbozèkpa Gbèna | [49] | |||||
Wèmè-Tosso | King | Tossoholou Zoundjè Wandji Ganmasizo Toli Yélian | ||||||
Zinvié Yevié | King | Adjihinto | ||||||
Bakgatla | Kgosikgolo | Kgafela II | 20 September 2008 | Masilo | Hereditary | [50] [51] | ||
Kgosikgolo | Kgari III | 17 August 2002 | Hereditary | [52] | ||||
Kgosigadi | 7 January 2002 | Badimo | Hereditary | [53] | ||||
Kgosikgolo | 5 May 1979 | Masilo | Hereditary | [54] | ||||
Bangwaketse | Kgosikgolo | Malope II a Gaseitsiwe | 5 August 2010 | Hereditary | [55] [56] | |||
Kgosikgolo | Lotlamoreng II | 23 February 2002 | Morolong | Hereditary | [57] | |||
Batawana | Kgosigadi | Kealitile | 28 January 2004 | Masilo | Hereditary | [58] | ||
Kgosikgolo | Puso Gaborone | 30 May 2006 | Gaborone | Hereditary | [59] | |||
Boussouma | Naaba | Sigri | 10 August 2019 | Hereditary | [60] | |||
Diébougou | King | Quattara Sié Félix | 2007 | |||||
Djibo | Emir | Boubacari Dicko | [61] | |||||
Fada N'gourma (Gulmu) | King |
| Elective | [62] [63] | ||||
Liptako | Emir | Ousmane Amirou Dicko | [64] | |||||
Obiré | King | Gan | [65] | |||||
Rissiam | Naaba | Koanga | [66] | |||||
Tangzougou (Gourcy) | Naaba | Baongo de Gourcy | 27 August 2011 | [67] [68] | ||||
Tenkodogo (Zougrantenga) | Naaba | Guiguem-Pollé (Djiguampole) | 2016 | [69] | ||||
Wogodogo (Ouagadougou) | Mogho Naba | Baongo II | 1983 | Hereditary | [70] | |||
Yagha | Emir | Boureima Ly | [71] | |||||
Yatenga | Naaba | Kiiba | [72] | |||||
Mwami | vacant | Ntwero | Hereditary | |||||
Adié | Chief | William Ndong Tchombè | [73] | |||||
Bafaw and Kumba | Nfon/Paramount chief | Nfon Mukete Ekoko IV | [74] | |||||
Bafut | Fon | Abumbi II | [75] | |||||
Bali Nyonga | Fon | Dr. Doh Ganyonga III | ||||||
Bamoun | Nfon/King/Sultan | Mouhamed Nabil Nfonrifoum Mbombo Njoya | 10 October 2021 | Hereditary | [76] [77] | |||
Bamoungoum | Chief | Moumbe Fotso Mitterand | [78] | |||||
Bana | Fon | Sikam Happi V | [79] | |||||
Bandjoun | Chief | Honoré Djomo Kamga | ||||||
Bangangté | King/Chief | Nji Monluh Seidou Pokam | [80] [81] | |||||
Bangoua | Chief | Julio Djampou Tchatchouang | [82] | |||||
Banyo | Lamido | Banyo Mohaman Gabdo Yaya | [83] | |||||
Baya | Chief | Mbele Banga | ||||||
Bogo | Lamido | Yerima Bello Hamadou | August 2022 | [84] | ||||
Dibombari | Traditional chief | Toto Bekombo Théodore Chef | [85] | |||||
Ebessep | Chef supérieur | Grégoire Langoul | [86] | |||||
Edinding | Chief | Tsala Ndjomo Guy | [87] | |||||
Eséka | Chief | Gabriel Mayi Matip | [88] | |||||
Fontem | Fon | Asabaton Fontem Njifua | [89] | |||||
Garoua | Lamido | Ibrahim El Rachidine | [90] | |||||
Guirvidig | Chief | Ampou Agourda | ||||||
Kalfou | Chief | Yerima Hamadou Tomboutou | ||||||
Kom | Fon | Clement Ndzi II | [91] | |||||
Logone-Birni | Sultan | Mahamat Bahar Marouf | ||||||
Maka-Bebend | Chief | Bertrand Effoudou | [92] | |||||
Maka-Mboang | Chief | Jean-Claude Balla | ||||||
Sultan | Hamidu Umar | 18 March 1942 | Hereditary | |||||
Mankon | Fon | Asaah Fru Angwafor IV | 7 June 2022 | [93] | ||||
Matakam-Sud | Lamido | Djeguele Zogue | ||||||
Meiganga | Lamido | Moussa Sabo | ||||||
Maroua | Lamido | Abdoulaye Yérima Bakary | 16 September 2022 | [94] | ||||
Mogode | Lamido | Alhadji Isse Tize | ||||||
Mokolo | Lamido | Yacouba Mohamadou Mourtalla | ||||||
Mvog-Nama I | Chef supérieur | Jean Marie Mama | 7 June 2007 | [95] | ||||
Ndog-Bea-Nord | Chief | Louis Mbem | 4 May 2006 | [96] | ||||
Ndoukoula | Chief | Ayang Luc | ||||||
Ngaoundéré | Lamido | Mohamadou Hayatou Issa | [97] [98] | |||||
Nso | Fon | Sehm Mbinglo II | [99] | |||||
Omvang-Sekonda | Chief | Ze Nguélé René | ||||||
Rey Bouba | Lamido | Abdoulaye | ||||||
Sanaga | Chef supérieur | Mveimani Sombo Amba | [100] | |||||
Sawa and Bell | King | Jean Yves Eboumbou | [101] | |||||
Tibati | Lamido | Mohamadou Hadi Barkindo | 17 June 2023 | [102] | ||||
Tignère | Lamido | Yerima Baba Daiïrou | ||||||
Widikum | Fon | Fongum Gorji Dinka | [103] | |||||
Yagoua | Lamido | Ahmadou Dahirou | 17 September 2020 | Elective | [104] | |||
Second degree chiefdoms | Abuh | Fon | Clement Fonkwah Mbeng | [105] | ||||
Anyajua | Fon | Nsom Johnson Chongsi | ||||||
Baba I | Fon | Fue Nghaper II | 8 May 2023 | [106] | ||||
Babungo | Fon | Ndofoa Zofoa III | ||||||
Bafmeng | Fon | Francis Aneng | [107] | |||||
Bafoussam | Chef supérieur | Njitack Ngompe Pelé | [108] | |||||
Baleveng | Chef supérieur | Guemgni Gaston | [109] | |||||
Bamendjinda | Chef supérieur | Tanefo Jean Marie | ||||||
Bamendou | King | Gabriel Tsidie | [110] | |||||
Bamendjou | King/Fo'o | Jean Rameau Sokoudjou | [111] | |||||
Batoufam | Chief | Nayang Toukam Innocent | [112] | |||||
Bazou | King | Vincent Tchoua Kemajou de Bazou | [113] | |||||
Belo | Fon | Peter Ndong Abang | ||||||
Berabe | Fon | Emmanuel Bami | [114] | |||||
Binka | Fon | Nfor Samuel Hombome | [115] | |||||
Binshua | Fon | Edmund Kimbi | 25 March 2012 | |||||
Buku | Fon | Lenge Joseph Eku | [116] | |||||
Bum | Fon | Kwanga Peter Yai | ||||||
Djottin | Fon | Joseph Nfon Tayen Ngam Nfii II | [117] | |||||
Fundong | Fon | Diang Zacheus | ||||||
Kiluun | Fon | Njoyir II | [118] | |||||
Kungi | Fon | Yaya Musa Gamje Budi | 2007 | [119] | ||||
Mbem | Fon | Samuel Ngwim Ngabum | [120] | |||||
Mbessa | Fon | Njong Gilbert II | ||||||
Mbiame | Fon | Nwe II | [121] | |||||
Mbot | Fon | Shey Barnabas Mbunwe II | [122] | |||||
Mfe | Fon | Chepnda Ronald | 2022 | [123] | ||||
Ndu | Fon | Nfor Nformi | [124] | |||||
Njinikom | Fon | Ngeh Francis | ||||||
Nkamchi | Fon | Richard Chefon | [125] | |||||
Nkambé | Fon | Nji Amidu | [126] | |||||
Nkar | Fon | Molo II | [127] | |||||
Ngarum | Fon | Nganji IV | 2018 | [128] | ||||
Nseh | Fon | Senyuy Oliver N. Fonban II | [129] | |||||
Oku | Fon | Ngum IV | [130] | |||||
Tabenken | Fon | Ngwayi Polycarp Ndiborti | [131] | |||||
Talla | Fon | Isaac Nfor Bassa | 2010 | [132] | ||||
Weh | Fon | Mbuh II | ||||||
Sultan | Maxime Faustin Mbringa Takama | 2011 | Hereditary | [133] | ||||
Birao / Vakaga | Sultan | Ahmad Moustapha Am-Gabo | [134] | |||||
Sultan | Ibrahim Kamoun Senoussi | 2014 | Hereditary | [135] | ||||
Sultan | Joseph Hetman el Roosalem | Hereditary | ||||||
Mbang | Mahamat Yusuf | 14 June 1970 | Baguirmi | Hereditary | [136] | |||
Sultan | Cherif Abdelhadi Mahdi | August 2019 | Hereditary | [137] | ||||
vacant | 23 December 2020 | Hereditary and elective | [138] | |||||
Babungwe | Mwami | Sindi Charles Sami III | Hereditary | |||||
Bafiluru | Mwami | Ndare III Simba Kalingishi Adams | Hereditary | |||||
Mwami | Kalinda Nicolas | Hereditary | ||||||
Bakwa Luntu | Queen | Diambi Kabatusuila | [139] | |||||
Mwami | Richard Nijinbere Kinyoni III Ndabagoye | Hereditary | ||||||
Basanga | Mulopwe | Mathieu Pembamoto Kyala | Hereditary | |||||
Basile | Mwami | Kalega Riziki Lwango II Lucien | Hereditary | |||||
Bashu | Mwami | Abdul Paluku Kalemire III | Hereditary | |||||
Buhavu | Mwami | Kamirogosa III Shosho Ntale Franc | Hereditary | |||||
Bukumu | Mwami | Kahembe IV Isaac Butsitsi | Hereditary | |||||
Burhunyi | Mwami | Muganga Bulala II Richard | Hereditary | |||||
Mwami | Sangara Amri Hubert II | Hereditary | ||||||
Bwisha | Mwami | Jean Baptiste Ndeze Rekatubere | Hereditary | |||||
Garengaze | Mwami | M'siri Mwenda VIII Bantu Godefroid Munongo | Hereditary | |||||
Kabare | Mwami | Nabushi Désiré Kabare Rugemaninzi II | Hereditary | |||||
David Tsukia Likambo | Hereditary | |||||||
Kasongo Lunda | Kiamvu Frederic Inkani | Hereditary | ||||||
Kaziba | Mulopwe | Mwami Dirk Majiri IV Nakaziba Chimanye | Hereditary | |||||
Nyim Kot a Mbweeki III | Hereditary | |||||||
vacant | Hereditary | |||||||
Luhwindja | Mulopwe | Mwami Naluhwindja Tony Chibwire V | Hereditary | |||||
Mushid III | Hereditary | |||||||
Mayogo Magbaie | Justin Somana | Hereditary | ||||||
Nweshe | Mulopwe | Mwami Ngweshe XV Pierre Ndatabaye Weza III | Hereditary | |||||
Ntambuka | Mulopwe | Mwami Ntambuka Balekage Mihigo III Roger | Hereditary | |||||
Rubenga | Rubenga | Hereditary | ||||||
Mulopwe | Mwami Lwegeleza III | Hereditary | ||||||
Wamuzimu | Mulopwe | Mwami Longangi IV Nen'Ilungu Kampangalasa | Hereditary | |||||
vacant | 15 November 2001 | Bahítáari | Hereditary | [140] | ||||
Royal Chief | Akula | 19 September 2020 | Hereditary | [141] | ||||
Benga | King | Marcel Nkombouet | [142] | |||||
Orungu | Mbongo Ntchounga | Hereditary | ||||||
Farli Baldeh | 1997 | Hereditary | ||||||
The Gambia & Kombo North District | Paramount chief | Alhaji Momodou Bojang | Hereditary | [143] | ||||
Okuapemhene/Paramount Chief | Okuapehene Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III | 3 May 2020 | Asona Clan | Hereditary | ||||
Akwamu | Akwamuhene/Paramount Chief | Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III | 2011 | Aduana Clan | Hereditary | |||
Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin | 4 October 1999 | Hereditary | ||||||
Omanhene | Beyeman Brentum III | Western Regional House of Chiefs | Hereditary | |||||
Asante | Otumfuo, the Asantehene | Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II | 26 April 1999 | Oyoko and President of the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs | Hereditary | |||
Asante Akyem Hwidiem | Saamanhene (Divisional Chief/Prince) | Nana Òkofrobòur Ababio II | August 7, 2015 | Hereditary | ||||
Agbogbomefia | Togbe Afede XIV | 4 October 2003 | Volta Regional House of Chiefs | Hereditary | ||||
Overlord | Yaa Naa Bukali Mahama II | January 18, 2019 | Andani and Northern Regional House of Chiefs | Hereditary | ||||
Omanhene | Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang-Badu II | Brong Ahafo Regional House of Chiefs | Hereditary | |||||
Gonja | King | Yagbongurwa Tuntumba Sulemana Jakpa Bore Essa I | 2010 | Northern Regional House of Chiefs | Hereditary | |||
Gbi | Fiaga/Paramount Chief | Togbega gabusu VI | 25 May 1989, d. 18 January 2020 | Torkoni Clan, Divisional Chief of Gbi-Hohoe, Volta Regional House of Chiefs | Hereditary | |||
Gbi | Togbe Osei III | 2002 | Hereditary | |||||
Kwahu | Okwahuhene/Kwahumanhene/Paramount Chief | Daasebre Akuamoah Agyapong II | 2017 | Bretuo Clan | Hereditary | |||
Mankessim | Omanhene | Osagyefo Amanfo Edu IV of Fante | Central Regional House of Chiefs | Hereditary | ||||
Sefwi Anhiawso | Omanhene | Western North Regional House of Chiefs | Hereditary | |||||
Sefwi Bekwai | Omanhene | Western North Regional House of Chiefs | Hereditary | |||||
Omanhene | Katakyie Kwasi Bumankamah II | Western North Regional House of Chiefs | Hereditary | |||||
Sefwi Chirano | Omanhene | Okogyeaman Kwaku Gyamprah III | Western North Regional House of Chiefs | Hereditary | ||||
Suaman | Omanhene | Odeneho Bentum IV | Western North Regional House of Chiefs | Hereditary | ||||
Paramount chief | Agosto Fernandes | Hereditary | ||||||
Kru chiefdoms | King David, His Majesty King Tchiffi Zae Jean-Gervais | [144] [145] | ||||||
N'Zima Kotoko | King | Amon Paul Désiré Tanow | [146] | |||||
Sanwi | King of Sanwi | Amon N'Douffou V | 5 August 2005 | Hereditary | ||||
Peter Mumia II | 1980 | Hereditary | ||||||
Franklin D. Toweh | Hereditary | |||||||
King | King Ndriana Rabarioelina | Hereditary Divine Election | ||||||
King | Tsiaraso IV Rachidy | 1993 | Hereditary | [147] | ||||
Mpanjaka Zalifa Bente Salim | 2017 | Hereditary | ||||||
vacant | Hereditary | |||||||
vacant | 2017 | Hereditary | ||||||
Inkosi ya Makosi M'mbelwa V | June 1996 | Hereditary and elective | [148] | |||||
Paramount Chief | Mkhumba | 25 October 2008 | Mihavani | Elective and hereditary | [149] | |||
Lundu Nkhuku | 2002 | Lundu | Hereditary and elective | [150] | ||||
Inkosi ya Makosi Gomani V | 26 September 2009 | Hereditary and elective | [151] | |||||
Ntemi Kyungu | September 2007 | Kyungu | Elective and hereditary | [152] | ||||
Themba la Mathemba Chikulamayembe | September 2007 | Chikulamayembe | Elective and hereditary | |||||
Paramount Chief | Chikowi | 15 February 2009 | Yao | Elective and hereditary | ||||
Liptako | Emir | Ousmane Amirou Dicko | Hereditary | |||||
Mali | Mansa | vacant | Hereditary | |||||
Emir | Mohamed Ould Abderrahmane | February 2003 | Idawi | Hereditary | [153] | |||
Emir | Hereditary | |||||||
Kaptein | Eduard Afrikaner | 24 July 2016 | Hereditary and elective | [154] | ||||
Bakgalagadi | Kgosi | Hubert Ditshabue | 18 April 1992 | Kgalagadi | Hereditary and elective | [155] | ||
Kaptein | John McNab | January 1999 | N/A | Elective | [156] | |||
Kaptein |
| 24 April 2010 |
| Elective and hereditary | [157] | |||
Kaptein | Dawid Frederiks | 1 June 1984 | Frederiks | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Kaptein | Anna Christiaan | 20 May 1977 | !Gami-nun | Hereditary and elective | [158] | |||
Gaob | September 1993 | N/A | Elective | |||||
Hompa | Kassian Shiyambi | 14 May 1999 | Gciriku | Hereditary and elective | ||||
’Aiha | David Khamuxab | 17 December 2000 | Hai-om | Elective and hereditary | [159] | |||
Hawoben | vacant | 4 March 2009 | Hawoben | Elective and hereditary | [160] | |||
Ombara | vacant | Ovaherero | Elective and hereditary | [161] | ||||
Kaptein | Petrus Simon Moses Kooper | 3 December 1988 | Kooper | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Ju’hoansi | ’Aiha | Tsamkxao Oma | 5 July 1990 | Ju’hoa | Elective and hereditary | |||
’Aiha | John Arnold | 28 February 1990 | !Kung | Elective and hereditary | ||||
Litunga | Mamili VII | 18 April 1999 | Mamili | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Munitenge | Liswani III | 19 August 1996 | Subiya | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Shikati | 1 August 1993 | Yeyi | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Fumu | Erwin Mbambo Munika | 3 May 1991 | Mbukushu | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Hompa | Frans Haingura Muronga | 25 May 1996 | Mbunza | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Elenga | Oswin Shifiona Mukulu | 13 May 1983 | Mbalantu | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Ombandja | Elenga | Mathias Walaula | 29 March 2004 | Mbandja | Hereditary and elective | [162] | ||
Omukwaniilwa | 14 April 2019 | Ndonga | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Omukwaniilwa | Japhet Malenga Munkundi | 16 November 1971 | Ngandjera | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Hompa | Angelina Matumbo Ribebe | 19 May 1989 | Sambyu | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Kaptein | Seth Kooitjie | 28 June 1980 | Aonin | Elective and hereditary | ||||
Swartbooi | Kaptein | Daniël Luipert | 15 November 1986 | Khau-goa | Elective and hereditary | |||
Uukolonkadhi | Elenga | David Shooya | 27 June 1985 | Kolonkhadi | Hereditary and elective | |||
Omukwaniilwa | Shikongo Taapopi | 20 September 1960 | Kwaluudhi | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Elenga | Herman Iipumbu | 10 April 1991 | Kwambi | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Hompa | Eugene Siwombe Kudumo | 25 April 2015 | Kwangali | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Ohamba | 12 November 2005 | Kwanyama | Hereditary and elective | [163] | ||||
Kaptein | Joel Stephanus | 6 April 1975 | Elective and hereditary | |||||
Kaptein | Christian Rooi | 13 October 2009 | Witbooi | Hereditary and elective | [164] [165] | |||
Namibia Herero chiefs | Ombara | Tuhavi David Kambazembi | 17 July 1989 | Kambazembi | Hereditary and elective | |||
Ombara | Alfons Maharero | 1969 | Maharero | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Ombara | Christiaan Eerike Zeraua | 4 October 1997 | Zeraua | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Ombara | Paulus Tjavara | 3 August 1996 | Otjikaoko | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Ombara | vacant | 31 October 2009 | Vita | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Ovambanderu | Ombara | Keharanjo II | 9 August 2008 | Nguvauva | Hereditary and elective | [166] | ||
Amenukal | Oumarou Ibrahim Oumarou | 2012 | Hereditary and elective | [167] | ||||
Djermakoy | Maidanda | 2000 | Hereditary | [168] | ||||
Liptako | Emir | Ousmane Amirou Dicko | ||||||
Lougou | Sarauniya Aljima | [169] | ||||||
Sarkin | Alhaji Ahmed Ali Zaki | 5 December 2022 | Durbawa | Elective and hereditary | [170] | |||
Askya | Sa'id Amaru | 1952 | Hereditary | [171] | ||||
Zinder (Damagaram) | Sarkin | Aboubakar Oumarou Sanda | 2011 | Damagaram | Elective and hereditary | [172] | ||
Agbor | Dein Benjamin Ikechukwu Kiagborekuzi I | 1979 | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Oba | 2005 | Hereditary and elective | [173] | |||||
Akure | Oba | Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi Odundun II | 8 July 2015 | Hereditary and elective | [174] | |||
Benin | Oba | 2016 | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Bida | Etsu | 2003 | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Borno | Shehu | 2009 | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Edem | Eze (Agaba-Idu) | 16 July 2009 | Ezea Ugwoke | |||||
Ikateland | Oba | Saheed Ademola Elegushi, Kusenla II | 27 April 2010 | Kusenla | Hereditary and elective | |||
Ile Ife | 26 October 2015 | Giesi of the Oranmiyan dynasty | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Ilesa | Owa Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II | Hereditary and elective | ||||||
Itele | Mufutau Adesanya Kasali Iboriaran I | 3 March 2003 | Ishagbola of the Moyegeso dynasty-cum-Fidipote, Idewon, Ijebu Ode | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Kano | Emir | Muhammadu Sanusi II | 24 May 2024 | House of Kano (descent from Ibrahim Dabo) | Hereditary and elective | [175] | ||
Kumbwada | Queen | 1998 | Hereditary through the female line | |||||
Lagos | Oba | 9 August 2003 | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Ariiọba Ikale | Abodi | 24 December 1997 | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Nasarawa Emirate | Emir | 2018 | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Nembe | Amanyanabo | Edmund Maduabebe Daukoru, Mingi XII | 2008 | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Nnewi | Igwe | 1963 | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Nri | Ezre Nri | 1988 | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Obi | 3 June 2002 | Elective | [176] | |||||
Orlu Gedegwum | Igwe | Patrick II Acholonu | 2009 | Hereditary | ||||
Oyo | Hereditary | |||||||
Sokoto | Sultan | 2006 | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Ugbo Kingdom | Oba | 2009 | Adetolugbo | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Warri | Olu | Ogiame Atuwatse III | 2021 | Hereditary and elective | ||||
King of Rwanda | Emmanuel Bushayija Yuhi VI | 9 January 2017 | Abanyiginya | Hereditary | ||||
Oussouye | Daniel LauShaun Kipchoge Choubassi-Roberts | 18 January 2001 | Jola | Elective | [177] | |||
Mohamed Kailondo Banya | Hereditary | |||||||
Hereditary | ||||||||
Majeerteen Sultanate | Boqor | 24 May 2014 | Hereditary | [178] | ||||
Isaaq Sultanate | Sultan | Daud Sultan Mahamed | 13 February 2021 | Rer Guled | Hereditary | [179] | ||
Habr Yunis Sultanate | Sultan | Osman Sultan Ali | 1979 | Rer Ainanshe | Hereditary | [180] | ||
Habr Je'lo | Sultan | Abdillahi Sultan Ali | Rer Yonis | Hereditary | [181] | |||
Habr Awal | Sultan | Hasan Sultan Abdillahi | 2009 | Ahmed Abdallah | Hereditary | [182] | ||
Arap | Sultan | Abdirahman Sultan Omar | 15 September 2021 | Arap | Hereditary | [183] | ||
Dhulbahante | Garad | Jama Garad Ali | 24 April 2006 | Farah Garad | Hereditary | [184] | ||
Morena Moremoholo Mopeli | 2018 | Mopeli | Hereditary and elective | [185] | ||||
Kgosi | Thulare Victor Thulare | 29 July 2010 | Maroteng | Hereditary and elective | [186] [187] | |||
Morena Montoeli Mota | 2015 | Mota | Hereditary and elective | [188] | ||||
Kumkani | Zanozuko Tyelovuyo Sigcawu | 29 July 2010 | Mqikela | Hereditary and elective | [189] [190] | |||
Kumkani | Ndamase Ndamase | 8 February 2008 | Ndamase | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Ingwenyama | Makhosoke II | Manala-Mbongo | Hereditary and elective | |||||
Ingwenyama | Mbusi Mahlangu | 1 July 2005 | Ndzundza-Mabhoko | Hereditary and elective | [191] [192] [193] | |||
Kumkani | May 1989 | Dalindyebo | Hereditary and elective | [194] | ||||
Kumkani | Siyambonga Matanzima | 31 May 2010 | Matanzima | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Thovhele | Toni Mphephu Ramabulana | 28 November 1998 | Ramabulana | Hereditary and elective | [195] | |||
Kumkani | Ahlangene Sigcawu | 16 October 2020 | Hereditary and elective | [196] | ||||
Kumkani | 12 July 2020 | Hereditary and elective | [197] | |||||
Ingonyama yamaZulu | 7 May 2021 | Hereditary and elective | [198] | |||||
South Africa Venda paramounts | Thovhele | Musiiwa Gole Mphaphuli | 18 December 2001 | Mphaphuli | Hereditary and elective | |||
Thovhele | Kennedy Midiyavhathu Tshivhase | 1993 | Tshivhase | Hereditary and elective | ||||
South Africa Xhosa paramounts | Kumkani | Ngubesizwe Ludwe Siwane | June 2001 | Hereditary and elective | [199] | |||
Gasela | Kumkani | Mabikhwe Zwelandile | 14 February 1947 | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Inkosi | Nkosana Zwelimjongile Kama | 14 September 2002 | Hereditary and elective | [200] | ||||
Ntinde | Kumkani | Zwelitsha a Mgcawezulu | 16 September 1946 | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Qhayi | Kumkani | Mabundu Bangelizwe Jali | Hereditary and elective | |||||
South Africa other paramounts | Kgosi | April 2000 | Molotlegi | Hereditary and elective | [201] [202] | |||
vacant | 12 June 2005 | Hereditary and elective | [203] | |||||
King | Madzikane II | Hereditary and elective | [204] | |||||
Paramount Chief | Alan Andrew le Fleur | 8 November 2005 | Le Fleur | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Paramount Chief | Adam Kok V | 1991 | Kok | Hereditary and elective | [205] | |||
Kumkani | Langalibalele II | 1974 | Hadebe | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Mpondomise | Luzuko Matiwane | 14 January 2020 | Majola | Hereditary and elective | [206] [207] | |||
Emir | Kuol Deng Kuol | 19 February 1976 | Ngok | Hereditary and elective | [208] | |||
King | 2 May 2001 | Nyiudola | Hereditary | [209] [210] | ||||
King | Atoroba Rikito Gbudue | 9 February 2022 | Hereditary | [211] | ||||
Reth | Kwongo wad Dak | 4 August 1993 | Kwathker | Hereditary and elective | [212] [213] | |||
Mwene Mbonwean Sultanate of Ujiji | Kolo | Othman Hamza Malilo II | 2017 | |||||
Shambalai | vacant | 2000 | Kilindi | Hereditary | [214] | |||
Ntemi Fumakule-Bunamiko-Ndilanha | Since 1978, aged nine, to date | Ndilanha/Malya/Kina mweri/ | Hereditary | [215] | ||||
Aputaga | Nana Anè Ohiniko Quam Dessou XV | 24 March 2012 | Adjigo | Hereditary and elective | [216] | |||
Togbé Ahuawoto | Savado Lawson VIII | 1 August 2002 | Lawson | Hereditary and elective | ||||
Bè | Chief | Togbui Mawuko Aklassou Adélan IV | ||||||
Cokossi | Soma | Na Bema | Soma | Hereditary | ||||
Notsé | King/Chief | Togbui Agboli K. F. Agokoli IV | [217] [218] [219] | |||||
Glidji | Gè Fiogan | Sèdégbé Foli Bébé XV | 1997 | Tugban | Hereditary | |||
Uro Eso | Yusuf Ayeva | Uro Eso | Hereditary | |||||
Tado | King | Tonawakpon | 2012 | [220] [221] | ||||
King | Mlapa V Moyennant | Mlapa | Hereditary | |||||
Rwot | Acana II | 15 January 2005 | Payira | Hereditary | [222] | |||
Ubimu | Olarker Rauni III | August 2000 | Atyak wi naam | Hereditary | [223] | |||
Omugabe | 20 November 1993 | Bahinda | Hereditary | [224] | ||||
Ikumbania | Kintu Samuku Balamu of Gwere people | 10 October 1993 | Lukedi | |||||
Basimba people | 10 October 1955 | Basimba | Hereditary | |||||
Umukuka | 10 October 2016 | Masaba | ||||||
Kabaka | 24 July 1993 | Abalasangeye | Hereditary | |||||
Omukama | 24 July 1993 | Babito | Hereditary | [225] [226] | ||||
Wilberforce Nadiope IV | 5 October 2009 | Basoga | Elective and hereditary | [227] [228] [229] [230] [231] [232] | ||||
Emorimor | Augustine Osuban | 4 May 2000 | Elective | |||||
Rwoth | Marcellino Olar Ker (although now ousted in March 2013 for self imposition over the Ragem people) | 1 March 2008 | Hereditary | |||||
Azzu | Ephraim Kebbi | 14 June 2008 | Yuu | origin is not very clear.Elective | ||||
Kamuswaga | Kabumbuli II | 15 May 2004 | Babito | Hereditary | ||||
Won Nyaci | Yosam Odur-Ebii | 10 December 2005 | Elective | [233] | ||||
Adhola | Moses Stephen Owor | 7 August 1999 | Elective | |||||
Omusinga | 19 October 2009 | Abahira | Hereditary | |||||
Omukama | 26 August 1995 | Babito | Hereditary | |||||
Uganda Busoga confederates | Gabula | William Nadiope IV | 11 February 1995 | Kitimbo | Hereditary | [234] [235] | ||
Menya | Frederick Kakaire II | 11 February 1995 | Menyha | Hereditary | ||||
Wakooli | David Muluuya Kawunye | 11 February 1995 | Wakoli | Hereditary | ||||
Nkono | Mutyaba Nkono II | 11 February 1995 | Nkono | Hereditary | ||||
Zibondo | Edward Columbus Wambuzi | 3 September 2008 | Zibondo | Hereditary | ||||
Bunya | Luba | Juma Munulo II | 11 February 1995 | Hereditary | ||||
Nanyumba | John Ntale Nahnumba | 11 February 1995 | Hereditary | |||||
Kisiki | Yekosofato Kawanguzi | 11 February 1995 | Igaga | Hereditary | ||||
Ntembe | Badru Waguma | 11 February 1995 | Hereditary | |||||
Ngobi | Izimba Golologolo | 11 February 1995 | Ngobi | Hereditary | ||||
Tabingwa | Willington Nabwana | 11 February 1995 | Tabingwa | Hereditary | ||||
Litunga | Lubosi II | October 2000 | Aluyana | Hereditary | ||||
Chitimukulu ('King' or 'Paramount Chief') | Sosala Kanyanta Manga II | Bena Ng'andu | Hereditary and elective | [236] | ||||
His Majesty | Kalonga Gawa Undi Mkhomo V | 2 December 2004 | Undi | Hereditary and elective | [237] | |||
Inkosi ya Makosi | Mpezeni IV | 1981 | Hereditary and elective | [238] | ||||
Mwata | Kazembe XIX | 1998 | Hereditary | [239] | ||||
Mwene | Kabulwebulwe VI Mukutabafu IV | 1994 | Hereditary | |||||
Mwene | Kahare IX Kubama II | 1994 | Hereditary | |||||
Mwene | Momba | Hereditary | ||||||
Mwene | Mutondo XII | 1993 | Hereditary | |||||
Musarurwa | Hereditary | |||||||
Fortune Charumbira | Hereditary | |||||||
Lukas Mtshane Khumalo | Hereditary | |||||||
Ndabazunduna | Ndiweni | Ndebele | Hereditary |
See also: Fon (title). Cameroon's traditional authorities are split into first, second, and third degree chiefdoms. First degree chiefdoms contain at least two second degree chiefdoms, while second degree chiefdoms contain at least two third degree chiefdoms. Third degree chiefdoms generally contain only a village, small rural area or a small part of an urban centre. Some leaders are from ancient, pre-colonial lineages, while others are appointed by political leaders. The extent of authority between traditional authorities varies.[240]
There are around 79 first degree chiefdoms, 875 second degree chiefdoms, and 12,582 third degree chiefdoms.[241] [242]
The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana establishes the rule of traditional leaders, as well as a National House of Chiefs. All traditional leaders are registered with the National House of Chiefs as well as with the eleven Regional Houses of Chiefs, in accordance with the Chieftaincy (Membership of Regional Houses of Chiefs) Instrument, as published in the Gazette.
For a full list of the extant Nigerian traditional states and their rulers, see List of Nigerian traditional states.
Although Nigeria's traditional monarchs are legally recognized (by way of the numerous Chiefs' Laws), they do not currently have a constitutional role in the country.
In 2004, the Mbeki administration established the Commission on Traditional Leadership Disputes and Claims (CTLDC) to determine the legitimacy of the nation's traditional kingships. The purpose of the commission was to reconstruct the institutions of indigenous leadership after their distortion under the colonial and apartheid regimes.[243]
In July 2010, acting on the findings of the commission, the Zuma administration announced that the government would cease recognising a total of six of the thirteen traditional kingships upon the deaths of their incumbent monarchs.[244] [245] Their successors would be recognised as "principal traditional leaders", a status yet to be defined. The commission was denounced by several senior traditional leaders, who have taken the government to court in an attempt to reverse the ruling.[246] [247] [248]