Before colonial borders were drawn and nations as we know them were formed, Africa was a continent of kingdoms—many small, some vast, and often in conflict. Despite the advance of modern governance and the mapping of countries, many of these monarchies survived, with some remaining incredibly influential. In fact, traditional rulers still play a significant role in the political and cultural systems of many African countries. Politicians often seek the favour of these kings to secure support within their regions. Meanwhile, nations like Eswatini and Morocco still operate under absolute or semi-constitutional monarchies, with their kings ranking among the continent’s wealthiest individuals.
While democracy now dominates across Africa, these ten traditional monarchies continue to wield remarkable influence.
1. The Ashanti Kingdom – Ghana
One of West Africa’s most iconic kingdoms, the Ashanti rose to power through resistance and resilience. A notable moment was the 1900 rebellion led by Queen Yaa Asantewaa against British forces. Though the British eventually prevailed and exiled the queen to the Seychelles, the Ashanti Kingdom’s legacy endured.
Today, over 4.7 million people recognise the authority of the current king, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, also known as the Asantehene. He is considered the second most powerful figure in Ghana after the president, and his influence stretches far beyond ceremonial duties.
2. The Ife Kingdom – Nigeria
Founded around 500 CE by the Yoruba people, the Ife Kingdom is one of the oldest in Africa. The ruler, known as the Ooni of Ife, holds no formal political power but remains a central spiritual and cultural leader for the Yoruba—Nigeria’s second-largest ethnic group.
The current Ooni, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, ascended to the throne in 2015 (note: the original article mentions Oba Sijuwade, who passed away in 2015). With a strong presence in both cultural and economic spheres, the Ooni is also one of Nigeria’s wealthiest traditional rulers.
3. The Zulu Kingdom – South Africa
With over 10 million subjects, the Zulu Kingdom is the most prominent traditional monarchy in South Africa. Although primarily ceremonial, the king wields considerable influence, particularly in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, where the monarchy is often more trusted than the central government.
Following the death of King Goodwill Zwelithini in 2021, and subsequent passing of his wife, Queen Mantfombi Dlamini-Zulu, their son, King Misuzulu Zulu, became the heir. Despite disputes over his legitimacy, he has since assumed the throne, continuing the legacy of one of Africa’s most powerful dynasties.
4. The Kingdom of Morocco
As North Africa’s only remaining monarchy, Morocco transitioned to a constitutional monarchy in 2011, though the king retains vast executive powers. The monarchy dates back to the 7th century CE under the Almoravid dynasty.
The current ruler, King Mohammed VI, is Africa’s richest monarch, with an estimated net worth of $2 billion. His wealth largely stems from a 48% stake in the investment firm SNI, cementing both his political and economic influence.
5. The Eswatini Kingdom
Formerly known as Swaziland, Eswatini is Africa’s last absolute monarchy. Despite being one of the world’s poorest nations, its royal family is extremely wealthy, fuelling public discontent and regular calls for reform.
King Mswati III, who has ruled since 1986, is known for his lavish lifestyle and multiple marriages—he now has 15 wives. His most notable and controversial move was the 2018 name change from Swaziland to Eswatini, a rebranding estimated to have cost $50 billion.
6. The Garanganze Kingdom – DRC
Though largely ceremonial, the Garanganze Kingdom still holds influence across the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Zambia, and Tanzania. Its legacy dates back to the Bayeke people, once ruled by King Msiri, who was killed by Belgian forces in the 19th century.
The current monarch, Godefroid Munongo VIII, is also active in Congolese politics. While his authority is symbolic, the kingdom’s one million-plus subjects still regard him as a central figure in cultural and political matters.
7. The Ugbo Kingdom – Nigeria
Situated along Nigeria’s oil-rich southwestern coast, the Ugbo Kingdom is both culturally significant and economically powerful. With strong ties to offshore oil wealth, the monarchy enjoys considerable financial influence.
The current king, Oba Obateru Akinrutan, is valued at over $300 million, making him the richest traditional ruler in Nigeria. The kingdom is led by a council of 16 high-ranking chiefs, reinforcing its prominence within the region.
8. The Kingdom of Lesotho
Nestled entirely within South Africa, Lesotho is a constitutional monarchy. The royal family has faced numerous political challenges over the years, with the monarchy’s role now primarily symbolic.
King Letsie III first took the throne in 1990, during a period of exile for his father. He later resumed his role in 1996 and continues to serve as a unifying figure for the nation, even as most decisions lie with the elected government.
9. The Kingdom of Buganda – Uganda
Once Uganda’s most dominant power, Buganda still holds cultural sway despite its diminished political influence. Kabaka Edward Mutesa II was Uganda’s first president, but the kingdom’s power waned after his removal by Milton Obote in the 1960s.
Today’s Kabaka, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, presides over a ceremonial monarchy. However, the Buganda Kingdom still plays a significant role in cultural affairs and remains an important political voice in Uganda.
10. The Emirate of Kano – Nigeria
The Kano Emirate, founded in 1805 by Fulani rulers, remains one of Nigeria’s most influential Islamic monarchies. Although its political power was curtailed in 2019 when the government split it into smaller emirates, its cultural authority endures.
Emir Aminu Ado Bayero currently serves as the spiritual and cultural head of the Fulani people in Kano. Despite the governmental restructuring, many still recognise him as the legitimate emir, symbolising continuity in a rapidly changing Nigeria.
Final Thoughts
These traditional monarchies may no longer wield absolute power, but their cultural, spiritual, and often political influence remains deeply woven into the fabric of modern African society. From advising politicians to guiding millions of followers, these monarchs continue to play essential roles in their nations’ stories.
Which of these monarchies surprised you the most? Do you think traditional rulers still have a place in today’s political landscape? Let us know in the comments!
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