List of kingdoms and empires in African history

There were many kingdoms and empires across Africa throughout history. A kingdom is a state led by a king or queen, while an empire is a group of lands and peoples controlled by one main power, often through conquest. These states grew over many years and centuries in many different ways — through battles, sharing ideas, or developing separately.

Many people wrongly think Africa did not have large or organized states in the past. But in fact, Africa had many different kinds of political groups. There were big empires in West Sudanic empires, sacred groups in the area around the Congo River like confederations or commonwealths, and very organized kingdoms around the kingdoms of the Great Lakes.

Most of these kingdoms and empires existed before the time when European countries quickly took control of Africa around 1880–1914, known as the Scramble for Africa. Even though many were broken up during this time, some traditional leaders still have roles today. Today, Africa has three current sovereign monarchies: Lesotho and Morocco are constitutional monarchies, where rulers follow laws, and Eswatini is an absolute monarchy, where the ruler has full power.

Criteria for inclusion

Only places that were once independent and called kingdoms or empires by trusted sources are included here. Big Islamic empires that covered parts of North and Northeast Africa are not listed here, but you can learn more about them in the Muslim world section. The small parts of these empires that had their main city in Africa are included, though.

Stories passed down by word of mouth don't usually have exact dates, so the years listed here are often guesses based on lists of leaders. Each entry has one date for when it lost its independence or when it stopped being ruled by a faraway power. Some entries also have extra details and links to learn more.

Comparison between kingdoms

Historian Jan Vansina talked about different kinds of kingdoms in Sub–Saharan African areas, mostly in Central, South, and East Africa, with some from West Africa. He described five main types based on how much power the king had:

1. Despotic Kingdoms: Here, the king controlled everything directly and chose his own leaders. He was the only one who could use force. Examples include Rwanda, Nkore/Ankole, and Kongo in the 1500s.
2. Regal Kingdoms: The king handled outside matters himself but used local leaders to manage internal issues. These leaders kept their jobs but not their independence after being taken over. The king and his team often shared the same beliefs, group, and/or family.
3. Incorporative Kingdoms: In these kingdoms, the king only managed outside matters and a small central area. There were no permanent connections between him and the leaders of different regions. Local leaders kept most of their power after being taken over. Examples are the Bamileke, Luba, and the Lozi.
4. Aristocratic Kingdoms: The only tie between the central ruler and the regions was paying tribute, which showed they were under control. These kingdoms stayed together because the central area was stronger in battle. Examples include Kongo in the 1600s, Kazembe, Kuba, the Ha, and Chagga states in the 1700s.
5. Federations: For these kingdoms, outside matters were handled by a group of elders led by the king, who was just one among equals, like in the Ashanti Union. (Confederations are not included; see "List of confederations").

North Africa

Further information: History of North Africa

This is a dynamic list and may never be able to satisfy particular standards for completeness. You can help by editing the page to add missing items, with references to reliable sources.

A non-exhaustive list of kingdoms and empires in North Africa that we have record of:

4th millennium BCE – 6th century CE

• Protodynastic period in Egypt: (preceded by various cultures in which it is unclear if the institution of kingship existed) (preceded by nomes and nomarchs)

  • Lower Egypt Kingdom (3500–3100 BCE)
  • Upper Egypt Kingdom (3400–3150 BCE)

• Early Dynastic Egypt (3150–2686 BCE)

• Old Kingdom of Egypt (2686–2181 BCE)

• Kingdom of Kerma (2500–1500 BCE)

• First Intermediate Period in Egypt: (2181–2055 BCE)

  • Heracleopolis
  • Thebes

• Middle Kingdom of Egypt (2055–1650 BCE)

• Second Intermediate Period in Egypt (1700–1550 BCE)

  • 14th dynasty at Xois (1700–1650 BCE)
  • 15th dynasty and the Hyksos (1650–1550 BCE)
  • Abydos dynasty (1640–1620 BCE)
  • 16th dynasty (1650–1580 BCE)
  • 17th dynasty (1571–1540 BCE)

• New Kingdom of Egypt (1550–1077 BCE)

• Third Intermediate Period in Egypt: (1077–664 BCE)

  • 21st dynasty (1077–943 BCE)
  • 22nd dynasty (943–716 BCE)
  • 23rd dynasty (837–728 BCE)
  • 24th dynasty (732–720 BCE)

• Kingdom of Kush (1070 BCE – 350 CE) and the 25th dynasty of Egypt/Kushite Empire (754–656 BCE)

• Ancient Carthage (814–146 BCE)

• Late Dynastic Egypt (664–525 BCE, 404–343 BCE)

• Battiadae Kingdom (631–440 BCE) (List of kings of Cyrene)

• Garamantes Kingdom (pre 5th century BCE – 7th century CE)

• Kingdom of Blemmyes (600 BCE – 3rd century CE)

• Ptolemaic Kingdom (305–30 BCE)

• Kingdom of Numidia (202–46 BCE) (preceded by Massylii Confederation)

• Kingdom of Mauretania (202 BCE – 25 BCE/44 CE)

• Kingdom of Nobatia (350–650 CE) (absorbed into Makuria)

• Kingdom of Ouarsenis (430–735 CE) (Romano-Berber kingdoms)

• Kingdom of the Vandals and Alans (435–534 CE)

• Kingdom of the Moors and Romans (477–599 CE)

• Kingdom of the Aurès (484–703 CE) (Kahina) (Romano-Berber kingdoms)

• Kingdom of Makuria (5th century–1518 CE) (Dongola as an interchangeable name prior to 1365? "" and Qalidurut, in which there are contrasting titles for the same king) (its rump state after the 1365 civil war is often conflated as Dotawo and it is unknown whether the other polity in the civil war continued to hold Dongola prior to Funj conquest)

• Kingdom of Hodna^: 508  (5th century–7th century CE) (Hodna) (Romano-Berber kingdoms)

• Kingdom of Capsus (5th century–6th/7th century CE) (Gafsa) (Romano-Berber kingdoms)

• Ucutumani Kingdom (?–?) (Romano-Berber kingdoms)

• Nemencha Kingdom (5th century–7th century CE) (Romano-Berber kingdoms)

• Lagautan/Tripolis/Cabaon Kingdom (5th century–7th century CE) (Cabaon) (Romano-Berber kingdoms)

• Kingdom of the Dorsale (510–7th century CE) (Romano-Berber kingdoms)

• Kingdom of Altava (578–708 CE) (Kusaila of Awraba) (Roman–Berber kingdoms)

• Principality of Tingitana^: 508  (6th century–7th century CE) (Mauretania Tingitana)

• Kingdom of Alodia/Alwa (6th century–1504 CE)

7th century – 12th century CE

• Dar Sila 'Wandering Sultanate' (619–? CE)

• Emirate of Nekor (710–1019 CE)

• Barghawata/Tamasna Kingdom (744–1058 CE) (Salih ibn Tarif)

• al–Rahman's Ifriqiya (745–755 CE)

• Ifranid Emirate of Tlemcen (757–790 CE) (Algeria)

• Emirate of Sijilmassa (759–976 CE)

• Rustamid Imamate of Tahert (767–909 CE) (Algeria) (Tahert)

• Idrisid dynasty (789–974 CE) (Morocco)

• Imamate of Nafusa (8th century–911 CE)

• Aghlabid dynasty (800–909 CE) (Tunisia)

• Sulaymanid dynasty (814–922 CE) (Algeria)

• Tulunid dynasty (868–905 CE) (Egypt)

• Fatimid Caliphate (910–1171 CE) (born from Danhāǧa Confederation)

• Banu Khattab dynasty (918–1172/1177 CE) (Zawila) (Libya)

• Ikhshidid dynasty (935–969 CE) (Egypt) (Abu al–Misk Kafur)

• Banu Kanz dynasty (948–1365 CE) (Egypt/Sudan)

• Maghrawa dynasty (988–1069 CE) (Morocco)

• Banu Khazrun dynasty (1001–1146 CE) (Libya)

• M'zab (1012–16th century/1882 CE)

• Hammadid dynasty (1014–1152 CE) (Algeria) (born from Danhāǧa Confederation)

• Almoravid dynasty (1040–1147 CE) (Morocco and Western Sahara) (born from Aznag Confederation)

• Zirid dynasty (1048–1148 CE) (Algeria) (born from Danhāǧa Confederation)

• Khurasanid dynasty (1059–1128 CE, 1148–1158 CE) (Tunisia)

• Banu Ghaniya dynasty (1180–1212 CE) (Tunisia)

• Almohad dynasty (1121–1269 CE) (Morocco) (born from Masmuda Confederation) (Tinmel)

• Ayyubid dynasty (1171–1254 CE) (Egypt)

• Guanches Guanartematos: (pre–15th century CE) (Gran Canaria)

  • Telde
  • Gáldar

• Daju kingdom (12th century–15th century CE) preceded by Tora (overthrown by Tunjur)

13th century – 18th century CE

• Emirate of Banu Talis (1228–1551 CE)

• Hafsid dynasty (1229–1574 CE) (Tunisia) (born from Masmuda Confederation)

• Zayyanid Kingdom of Tlemcen (1235–1556 CE) (Algeria) (born from Zenata Confederation)

• Marinid dynasty (1248–1465 CE) (Morocco) (born from Zenata Confederation)

• Mamluk Sultanate (1250–1517 CE)

  • Bahri dynasty (1250–1382 CE)
  • Burji dynasty (1382–1517 CE)

• Banu Makki dynasty (1282–1394 CE) (Tunisia)

• Hafsid Emirate of Béjaïa/Bougie (1285–1510 CE)

• Kingdom of al–Abwab (13th century–15th/16th century CE)

• Hafsid Emirate of Qusantina/Constantine (CE 13th/14th century–1528) (Constantine)

• Banu Thabit dynasty (1324–1401 CE) (Libya)

• Zab Emirate (mid 14th century–1402 CE)

• Sultanate of Tuggurt (1414–1854/1871 CE) (vassal of Algiers (CE 1552–1812/1827)) (List of rulers of Tuggurt)

• Wattasid dynasty (1470–1554 CE) (Morocco) (born from Zenata Confederation)

• Tunjur kingdom (15th century–mid 17th century CE) (overthrown by Darfur)

• Abdallabi Kingdom (15th century–1504/1821 CE)

• Kingdom of Fazughli (1500–1685 CE)

• Sultanate of Sennar/Funj (1504–1821 CE)

• Saadi Principality of Sus and Tagmadert (1509–1554 CE) (Sous) (at times ruled separately from Saadi Sultanate)

• Kingdom of Beni Abbas (1510–1872 CE)

• Kingdom of Kuku (1515–1638 CE)

• Regency of Algiers (1516/1659–1830 CE) (Odjak of Algiers Revolution)

• Fezzan Sultanate (1556–1804/1912 CE)

• Saadi dynasty (1554–1659 CE) (Morocco)

• Regency of Tunis (1574/1591/1613–1705 CE) (Muradid dynasty) succeeded by Beylik of Tunis (1705–1881 CE) (Husainid dynasty)

• Naqsid Principality of Tetouan (1597–1673 CE)

• Sultanate of Darfur (1603–1874 CE, 1898–1916 CE) (Keira dynasty)

• Republic of Bou Regreg (1627–1668 CE) (Elective monarchy?)

• Dila'iya Sultanate (1637–1668 CE)

• Alaouite dynasty (1666 CE–current) (SM of Morocco) (Makhzen)

• Dar Tama Sultanate^: 450  (17th century CE–?) (Tama people)

• Tazerwalt (17th century CE)

• Regency of Tripoli (1551/1711–1835/1912 CE) (Karamanli dynasty)

• Taqali Kingdom (1750–1884 CE, 1889–1969 CE) (Tagale people)

19th century CE – present

• Emirate of Abdelkader/Mascara (1832–1847 CE)
• Dar Qimr Sultanate^: 450  (1850–?/1945 CE) (mentioned in Sultan#West Asia and North Africa)
• Mahdist State (1885–1889 CE)
• Dar Masalit Sultanate (19th century–early 20th century CE)
• Muhammad Ali dynasty (1914–1951 CE) (Egypt)
• Emirate of Cyrenaica (1949–1951 CE)
• Senussi dynasty (1951–1969 CE) (Libya) preceded by Senusiyya (1837 CE–present)
• Kingdom of Tunisia (1956–1957 CE)

East Africa

Further information: History of East Africa

See also: List of African Great Lakes kingdoms

This is a dynamic list and may never be able to satisfy particular standards for completeness. You can help by editing the page to add missing items, with references to reliable sources.

A non-exhaustive list of kingdoms and empires in East Africa that we have record of:

4th millennium BCE – 6th century CE

• Kingdom of Mun (2500–980 BCE)
• Ancient Somali city-states (1000 BCE – various CE)
  • Opone, Mundus, Mosylon, Malao, Nikon, Sarapion, Mudun, Damo, Miandi, Qandala, Botiala, Essina, Bosaso, Gondershe, Hannassa, Salweyn, Bulhar and Merca
• Macrobian Kingdom (1000–500 BCE)
• Kingdom of Dʿmt (980–650 BCE)
• Azania (?–1st century CE) (Rhapta) (Southern Cushitic people and the Bantu expansion)
• Aksumite/Axumite Empire (50–960 CE) (List of kings of Axum) (preceded by various city-states)
• Harla Kingdom (501–1500 CE)

7th century – 12th century CE

• Sultanate of Dahlak (7th century–16th century CE)

• Swahili city states (8th century–various CE) (Bantu expansion and Zanj) (List of historic Swahili coast settlements)

  • Kilwa, Kunduchi, Mbuamaji, Tongoni, Kimbiji, Kaole, Malindi, Gedi, Pemba sultanates (Hadimu), Tumbatu, and Mombasa

• Sultanate of Shewa/Shoa (896–1286 CE) (List of rulers of Shewa)

• Hubat (9th century–14th century CE)

• Gidaya (9th century–14th century CE)

• Hargaya (9th century–14th century CE)

• Mora (9th century–14th century CE)

• Giddim (?–17th century CE)

• Beja Kingdoms:

  • Bazin (9th century–15th century CE)
  • Belgin (9th century–15th century CE)
  • Jarin (9th century–15th century CE)
  • Qita'a (9th century–15th century CE)
  • Nagash (9th century–15th century CE)
  • Tankish (9th century–15th century CE)
  • Mezega/Belew/Bellou/Kelew (15th century CE–?) (Balaw)

• Tunni Sultanate (9th century – 13th century CE)

• Malindi Kingdom (9th century–15th century CE)

• Kilwa Sultanate (957–1513 CE)

  • Shirazi dynasty (957–1277 CE)
  • Mahdali dynasty (1277–1495 CE) succeeded by 3 Portuguese coups until 1513 CE

• Kingdom of Semien/Falasha (960–1137 CE) (Beta Israel) (only according to legend)

• Kingdom of Damot (10th/13th century–1317 CE) (possibly same as Wolaita)^: 59  neighbouring Bizamo

• Empire of Kitara (10th century–15th century CE) preceded by Bugangaizi (Tembuzi dynasty/Batembuzi followed by Chwezi dynasty/Bachwezi)

• Fatagar Sultanate (11th century–14th century CE)

• Wäj (?–? CE)

• Ganz (?–? CE)

• Kingdom of Gisaka [fr] (11th century–1854 CE) (Gesera clan), splintered into Busozo and Bushiru^: 517 

• Zagwe dynasty (1137–1270 CE)

• Sultanate of Arababni (12th century–16th century CE)

• Wanga Kingdom (12th century–1895/present CE) (NSM of Kenya) (List of rulers of Wanga)

13th century – 18th century CE

• Pate Sultanate (1203–1895 CE) (List of rulers of Pate) subordinate sultanates?:

  • Lamu
  • Siyu
  • Manda

• Kingdom of Wolaita/Welayta (1251–1896 CE) (possibly same as Damot)^: 59 

• Ethiopian Empire (1270–1974 CE)

• Sultanate of Ifat (1285–1415 CE) (Walashma dynasty)

• Dawaro Emirate (pre–13th century/18th century CE)

• Dankali Sultanate (13th century–18th century CE)

• Ugweno/Upare Kingdom^: 414  (13th century–15th century/1881/1962 CE) (Shana dynasty followed by Suya dynasty) (Pare people)

• Hadiya Sultanate (13th century–15th century CE, 17th century–19th century CE)

• Sultanate of Dara^: 349  (?–? CE)

• Sultanate of Sara/Sarha^: 349  (?–? CE)

• Sultanate of Mogadishu (13th century–16th century CE)

• Sultanate of Bale/Bali^: 86  (13th century–16th century CE)

• Dobe'a (?–? CE)

• Kingdom of Rwanda^{: 332–333}  (1350–1897/1962 CE) (NSM in Rwanda) (Gihanga) (Nyiginya) (preceded by Singa, Zigaba and Gesera as the oldest, Banda, Cyaba, Ongera and Enengwe)^: 516 

• Ajuran Sultanate (14th century–17th century CE) preceded by the Garen Kingdom ^{[citation needed]}

• Sharkha Sultanate^: 86  (pre–14th century CE)

• Gonga kingdoms: (Gonga languages):

  • Kingdom of Kaffa (1390–1897 CE)
  • Ennarea/Inariya Kingdom (14th century–1710 CE) succeeded by Kingdom of Limmu–Ennarea (1801–1891 CE) (List of rulers of Ennarea)
  • Kingdom of Garo/Bosha (1567–1883 CE) (List of rulers of Garo)
  • Bizamo (?–? CE)
  • Konch kingdom (?–? CE)
  • Boro kingdom (?–? CE) (Boro language)
  • Kingdom of Anfillo (late 16th century-late 19th century) (Anfillo language)

• Kitagwenda Kingdom (1390–1901 CE) (incorporated into Tooro)

• Early Luo Kingdoms: (9 states by 1750 CE)

  • Tekedi Kingdom^: 507  (early 15th century–mid 16th century CE)
  • Palwo/Paluo/Biito/Babito kingdoms (subset of Luo)
    • Pawir Kingdom^{: 381–393  : 508–512}  (pre 15th century CE–?) (later a province of Bunyoro)
    • (Lira Paluo, Paimol; not primarily Palwo/Paluo states: Padibe, Patongo, Alur/Alero and Koc)^{: 381–393} 
  • Wipac Kingdom^{: 392–393}  (pre 15th century CE–?)

• Kingdom of Bunyoro (14th century–1899/present CE) (NSM in Uganda) (Omukama of Bunyoro) (not to be confused with Empire of Kitara, its predecessor)

• Busongora Kingdom (14th century/1725–1906/present CE) (NSM in Uganda) (Songora people) (incorporated into Ankole)

• Adal Sultanate (1415–1555 CE)

• Kingdom of Karagwe (1450–1890s/1963 CE)

• Shilluk Kingdom^{: 332–333}  (1490–1861/present CE) (NSM in South Sudan)

• Nkore/Ankole Kingdom^{: 332–333}  (1430–1901/1967CE) (NSM in Uganda) (called Nkore before 1914 when, under British administration, it was combined with several states to form Ankole)

• Angoche Sultanate (1485/1513–1910 CE)

• Alur Kingdom^{: 332–333}  (1490/1630–?/present CE) (NSM in Uganda) (Alur people#Alur Kingdom)

• Yamma/Janjero Kingdom (15th century–1894 CE)

• Sultanate of Tadjourah [fr] (15th century–1884 CE)

• Mubari Kingdom (15th century–16th century/18th century CE) (Zigaba clan)

• Busigi Kingdom^: 517  (15th century–?/early 20th century CE)

• Kingdom of Buzinza (15th century–? CE)

• Kingdom of Buganda^{: 393–395} (13th/14th century–1884/present CE) (NSM in Uganda) (Kabaka of Buganda) (Lukiiko)

• Maore Sultanate^{: 436–438}  (1500–1832/1835 CE) (List of sultans of Maore)

• Ndzuwani Sultanate^{: 436–438}  (1500–1866/1886/1912 CE) (Anjouan) (List of sultans of Ndzuwani)

• Agĩkũyũ (1512–1888/1895 CE) (Kikuyu people)

• Vazimba Kingdoms (pre–1547 CE) (uncertain regarding total) (Andriandravindravina) (Twelve sacred hills of Imerina):

  • Alasora
  • Ambohidratrimo
  • Imerimanjaka [mg]

• Menabe Kingdom (1540–1834 CE)

• Kingdom of Imerina/Madagascar (1540–1897 CE) (NSM in Madagascar) (List of Imerina monarchs) (4 states emerged in the civil war, to later be reunited): (1710–1787 CE)

  • Imerina Avaradrano (Antananarivo–Avaradrano)
  • Ambohimanga (won the civil war with King Andrianampoinimerina)
  • Ambohidrabiby
  • Ambohidratrimo

• Mombasa Sultanate (1547–1826 CE) (List of rulers of Mombasa)

• Gadabuursi Ughazate (1575/1607–1884)

• Imamate of Aussa (1577–1734 CE) succeeded by Sultanate of Aussa (1734–1865/1975 CE, 1991 CE–present) (NSM in Ethiopia)

• Mäzäga/Säläwa (pre-16th century CE) (Ga'ewa) (conquered by Ethiopia)

• Busoga kingdoms^{: 332–333}  (CE 16th century–late 19th century/present) (NSM in Uganda) (only formed a federation in 1906 under British administration, some of its federates (32) are also NSMs in Uganda) (Kyabazinga of Busoga) (Lukiiko):

  • Group of 6 kingdoms:
    • Busiki (1683–?/present CE)
    • Bugweri (1728–late 19th century/present CE)
    • Bunya (pre 1737 CE–?/present)
    • Bukooli (pre 1737 CE–?/present)
    • Bunyole
    • Butembe
  • Group of 5 principalities:
    • Bulamogi (1550 CE–?/present)
    • Bukono (pre 1656–1896/present CE)
    • Luuka/Luzinga (pre 1737 CE–?/present)
    • Kigulu (1737–1896 CE)
      • Kigulu–Buzimba (1806–1899 CE) (split from Kigulu, later reunited under British administration)
    • Bugabula

• Kingdom of Bugesera (16th century–1799 CE) (partitioned between Rwanda and Burundi)

• Teso Kingdom (16th century CE–?) (Teso people)

• Kayonza Kingdom (16th century CE–?)

• Kingizi Kingdom (16th century CE–?)

• Grande Comore Sultanates^{: 436–438}  (16th century–19th century CE): (united into Ndzuwani /Anjouan in 1886)

  • Bambao, Itsandra, Mitsamihuli, Washili, Badgini/Bajini, Hambuu, Hamahame, Mbwankuu, Mbude and Domba

• Antemoro Kingdom (16th century–late 19th century CE) (Antemoro people)

• Sultanate of Rehayto [fr] (1600–1891/1902 CE) (Rahayta)

• Antankarana Kingdom (1614–1835/present CE) {Antankarana)

• Bara/Zafamanely Kingdom (1640–1800 CE) (Bara people) (fractured into 3 major kingdoms and 24 minor kingdoms)

• Emirate of Harar (1526/1647–1875/1884 CE)

• Majeerteen Sultanate (1648–1889/1927 CE) (NSM in Somalia)

• Mahafaly Kingdoms (pre 1650 CE–?) (Mahafaly) (previously united?)^: 426 

  • Sakatovo (1650 CE–?)
  • Menarandra (1650 CE–?)
  • Linta (1670 CE–?) (split from Menarandra)
  • Onilahy (1750 CE–?) (split from Menarandra)

• Kingdom of Mpororo/Ndorwa^: 17  (1650–1753 CE) (Hororo people) (Muhumusa) (created as buffer state between Rwanda and Busongora) succeeded by: (all were incorporated into Nkore/Ankole)

  • Igara (1753–1901 CE)
  • Nshenyi (1753–1901 CE)
  • Rujumbura (1753–1901 CE)
  • Kajara (1753–1901 CE)
  • Obwera (1753–1901 CE)
  • Rukiga/Bushengyera (1753–1901 CE)

• Gojjam (1620–1855 CE)

• Kingdom of Burundi/Urundi^{: 332–333}  (1675–1890/1966 CE) (List of kings of Burundi)

• Boina/Iboina Kingdom (1690–1820/1840 CE)

• Guingemaro (pre-17th century CE)

• Bukunzi Kingdom (pre 17th century CE–?)

• Kinkoko/Cyinkoko Kingdom^: 398  (pre 17th century CE–?)

• Buhoma Kingdom^: 398  (pre 17th century CE–?)

• Bahavu Kingdom^: 398  (pre 17th century CE–?) (NSM in Democratic Republic of the Congo)

• Rusubi/Ussuwi Kingdom^: 398  (pre 17th century CE–?, ?–early 19th century CE) (seceded from Buzinza)^: 402  (appears to have split in two?)

• Kimwani Kingdom (pre 17th century CE–?) (seceded from Buzinza) (near Biharamulo, so not the Mwani people?)^: 7 

• Bukerebe/Ukerebe^{: 398–402}  (pre 17th century CE–?)

• Betsileo Kingdoms: (Betsileo people)

  • Lalangina
  • Isandra
  • Fandriana
  • Fisakana
  • Manandriana (1750–1800 CE)

• Antaisaka/Tesaka Kingdom^: 849  (17th century–1853 CE) (Antaisaka people)

• Anosy/Zafimanara Kingdom^: 849  (17th century–19th century CE) (Antanosy people) (Zafiraminia)

• Sakalava Empire (17th century–1896/present CE) (Sakalava people) (fractured into NSMs in Madagascar)

• Sultanate of the Geledi (late 17th century–1902/1908 CE)

• Milansi (17th century–1700) succeeded by Nkansi and Lyangalile (Fipa people and Twa)

• Haya Kingdoms:^{: 332–333}  (17th century–late 19th century CE) (Haya people) (Kagera Region)

  • Kyamtwara (pre–late 18th century CE) succeeded by Maruku, Bugabo and Lesser Kyamtwara (late 18th century–1890/1961 CE)
  • Kiziba (pre–1890/1961 CE)
  • Ihangiro (pre–1890/1961 CE)
  • Kianja/Kiyanja/Kyanja/Kihanja (pre–1890/1961 CE)

• Chagga states:^{: 332–333}  (CE 17th century–1886/1961) (37 in total):

  • Orombo's empire^: 50  (19th century CE)
  • Kingdom of Siha/Kibongoto
  • Kingdom of Machame
  • Kingdom of Masama
  • Kingdom of Marangu
  • Kingdom of Mamba
  • Kingdom of Mwika
  • Kingdom of Old Moshi
  • Kingdom of Kirua
  • Kingdom of Kibosho (Battle of Kibosho)
  • others: Uru, Mbokomu, Mochi, Kilema, Arusha Chini, Kahe

• Betsimisaraka Kingdom^{: 433–434}  (1710–1817 CE) (Betsimisaraka people) (preceded by Antavaratra and Antatsimo/Betanimena)

• Kingdom of Kooki (1720–1896/2004/present CE) (NSM in Uganda)

• Isaaq Sultanate (1749–1884/present CE) (NSM in Somaliland)

• Habr Yunis Sultanate (1769–1907/1917/present CE) (NSM in Somaliland)

• Shambaa/Shambala Kingdom^: 414  (1730s–1885 CE) (NSM in Tanzania) (Shambaa people) (Kilindi dynasty)

• Kingdom of Gumma (1770–1885/1902 CE) (List of rulers of Gumma)

• Kingdom of Jimma (1790–1884/1889/1932 CE) (List of rulers of Jimma)

• Buha Kingdoms (18th century–late 19th century CE): (Ha people)

  • Heru (called Oha initially by outside traders)
  • Nkalinzi/Manyovu
  • Bushingo/Ushingo
  • Muhambwe
  • Buyungu
  • Luguru/Ruguru
  • Bujiji/Ujiji (Jiji people)
  • Bushubi^{: 381–393} 

• Buzimba Kingdom (pre 18th century–1870/1901 CE) (incorporated into Ankole)

• Buhweju Kingdom (pre 18th century–1901 CE) (incorporated into Ankole)

• Bunyaruguru Kingdom (pre 18th century–1901 CE) (incorporated into Ankole)

• Tandroy/Zafimaniry Kingdom (early 18th century–1790/? CE) (Antandroy) (same as/separate from the Anosy Kingdom?)

• Habr Awal Sultanate (18th century–1884/present CE) (NSM in Somaliland)

• Antaifasy Kingdom^: 849  (18th century–1827/1896 CE) (Antaifasy)

• Sultanate of Goba'ad [fr] (18th century–1885/? CE)

• Zafirambo/Tanala Kingdom (18th century CE) (Tanala) (split into Manambondro and Sandrananta)

• Kingdom of Isandra (18th century–? CE)

• Benzanozano Kingdom^: 879  (late 18th century CE) (Bezanozano) (only had one king)

19th century CE – present

• Bassar Kingdom (1800 CE–?/present)
• Tumbuka Kingdom (1805–1891/present CE) (NSM of Malawi) (Tumbuka people)
• Wituland (1810–1885/1923 CE) (List of rulers of Witu)
• Ibanda Kingdom (1814–1902 CE) (incorporated into Ankole)
• Kingdom of Gomma (early 19th century–1886 CE) (List of rulers of Gomma)
• Tooro Kingdom (1830–1876/present CE) (NSM in Uganda)
• Mwali Sultanate^{: 436–438}  (1830–1886/1909 CE) (Mohéli) (List of sultans of Mwali)
• Kingdom of Gera (1835–1887 CE) (List of rulers of Gera)
• Nkhotakota Sultanate (1840–1894 CE) (Nkhotakota)
• Sultanate of Zanzibar (1856–1890/1964 CE)
• Sultanate of Hobyo (1880s–1888/1927 CE)
• Benishangul Sheikhdoms (19th century CE)
  • Sultanate of Asosa
  • Sheikhdom of Bambasi
  • Sheikhdom of Beni Shangul
  • Sheikhdom of Fadasi
  • Sheikhdom of Gizen
  • Sultanate of Gubba
  • Sheikhdom of Komosha
• Leqa Neqemte (19th century CE)
• Leqa Qellem (19th century CE)
• Uhehe Kingdom (19th century–1898 CE) (Hehe people)
• Usangi Kingdom (19th century–?/1962 CE)
• Uvinza/Buvinza (19th century CE) (Vinza people)
• Nyamwezi Kingdoms: (19th century CE) (Nyamwezi people)
  • Unyanyembe
  • Ulyankulu
  • Usukuma^{: 332–333}  (NSM in Tanzania) (Sukuma people)
  • Mirambo (1858–1895 CE)
• Sultanate of Biru/Girrifo (?–early 20th century CE) (Bidu (woreda)) (Afar people#Aussa states)

West Africa

A kingdom is a state with a king or queen as its head. An empire is a political unit made up of several territories, military outposts, and peoples, usually created by conquest, and divided between a dominant centre and subordinate peripheries.

West Africa has had many kingdoms and empires throughout history. Some of the well-known ones include:

4th millennium BCE – 6th century CE

• Ghana Empire/Wagadu (350–1240/15th century CE)
• Takrur Kingdom (6th century–1456/1526 CE)

7th century – 12th century CE

• Gao/Kaw Kaw Empire (7th century–1430 CE)
• Bainuk kingdom (7th century–13th century CE)
• Dô (pre-11th century–pre-18th century CE)
• Malel/Kiri/Mande (pre-11th century–13th century CE)
• Méma Kingdom (8th century–1450 CE)
• Silla (pre-11th century–13th/14th century CE)
• Hausa Kingdoms
  • Daura (700–1805/present CE)
  • Kingdom of Kano (999–1349 CE) succeeded by Sultanate of Kano (1350–1805 CE)
  • Rano (1001–1819/present CE)
  • Zazzau/Zaria (11th century–1808/1902/present CE)
  • Gobir (11th century–1803/? CE)
  • Biram (1100–1805/1991/? CE)
  • Katsina (1348–1807/present CE)
• Igodomigodo (900–1170 CE) (succeeded by Benin)
• Igbo kingdoms:
  • Kingdom of Nri (948 – 1911/present CE)
  • Nnewi Kingdom (1498–1904/present CE)
  • Aguleri Kingdom
  • Arochukwu and the Aro Confederacy (1690–1902 CE)
  • Onitsha
  • Agbor
  • Aboh
  • Oguta
  • Eri Kingdom
• Aoudaghost Kingdom (?–12th century/17th century CE)
• Maranda Kingdom (10th century CE)
• Takedda Kingdom (10th century–14th century CE)
• Tadmekka Kingdom (10th century–14th century CE)
• Gajaaga/Galam Kingdom (1000–1858 CE)
• Yoruba Kingdoms:
  • Owo (1019–1893/present CE)
  • Ilesa/Ijesha (1150 CE–?/present)
  • Ila Yara (12th century–15th century CE) split in two
  • Ife Empire (1200–1420 CE, ?–present)
  • Ìsèdó (13th/14th century CE–?)
  • Owu Kingdom (?–? CE)
  • Ugbo Kingdom
  • Oyo Empire (1300–1898/present CE)
  • Ijebu (1400–1892/present CE)
  • Ado Kingdom (15th century–1891 CE)
  • Iwo (1415 CE–?/present)
  • Ondo (1510–1899/present CE)
  • Dassa–Zoumé (1600–1889/present CE)
  • Lagos (1600–1862/present CE)
  • Ogbomosho (1659–?/present CE)
  • Bussa (pre 1730–19th century CE)
  • Savè/Sabe (1738–1894/present CE)
  • Ketu/Ketou (1795–1880s/present CE)
  • Egbaland (1829 CE–1914/present)
  • Ijaiye (1836–1861 CE)
  • Yewa (pre–1840s CE, 1890–1914 CE)
  • Ibadan (?–1893/present CE)
  • Akure (?–?, 1818–1854/present CE)
  • Badagry (1821–1863 CE)
• Kingdom of Diarra/Jara/Zara/Diafunu (1076–1860 CE)
• Sosso Empire (1076–1235 CE)
• Namandirou (11th century–1460 CE)
• Bandial Kingdom (?–present)
• Kingdom of Benin (1170–1897/present CE)
• Mossi Kingdoms:
  • Wagadugu Empire (1182–1896/present CE)
  • Tenkodogo (1120 CE–?/present)
  • Fada N'Gourma/Nungu (1204–1895/present CE)
  • Zondoma/Rawatenga/Yatenga (pre 1333–late 19th century/present CE)
  • Boussouma
  • Bilayanga
  • Koala (1718 CE–?)
• Edem Kingdom (12th century CE–?/present)
• Bonoman Kingdom (12th–19th century CE)

13th century – 18th century CE

• Akpakip Oro (1200–1909 CE)
• Kingdom of Doma (1233–1901 CE)
• Kingdom of Wuli (1235–1889 CE)
• Mali Empire (1235–1670 CE) preceded by Manden/Kangaba (1050–1237 CE)
• Mankessim Kingdom (1252–1844/present CE)
• Kombo Kingdom (1271–1875 CE)
• Waalo Kingdom (1287–1855 CE)
• Begho/Bron/Banda (13th century–1680 CE) succeeded by Asante Empire
• Kingdom of Ugu (13th century–?/present)
• Ahanta Kingdom (13th century–1656/19th century CE)
• Jolof Empire (13th/14th century–1549 CE) succeeded by Kingdom of Jolof (1549–1890 CE)

• Kingdom/Imamate of Wala (1317 CE–?)
• Adansi Kingdom (14th century–18th century CE) constituent states seceded after Ashanti conquest
  • Akyem Abuakwa (pre-16th century CE–?)
  • Akyem Kotoku (pre-16th century CE–?)
  • Akyem Bosome (pre-16th century CE–?)
• Kingdom of Sine (14th–19th century CE)
• Kingdom of Niani (14th century-late 19th century CE)
• Urhobo Kingdoms: (14th century CE–?)
  • Agbon
  • Olomu
  • Ughelli (Ughelli South)
  • Okpe
• Songhai Empire (14th century–1591 CE)
  • Sonni dynasty (14th century–1493 CE)
  • Askiya dynasty (1493–1591 CE) succeeded by Dendi Kingdom (1591–1901 CE)
• Massina Sultanate (1400–1818 CE)
• Sultanate of Agadez (1404–1500 CE, 1591–1906/present CE)

• Kingdom of Dagbon (14th/15th century–1896/present CE)

• Kingdom of Daniski (CE 1447–1806 CE) succeeded by Fika (1806–1899 CE)

• Mamprugu Kingdom (1450 CE–?/present)

• Brass kingdom (1450–1885 CE)

• Kingdom of Bonny (1450–1885/present CE)

• Warri Kingdom (1480 CE–?/present)

• Gonja Kingdom (1495 CE–1713/present)

• Empire of Great Fulo (1513–1776 CE) succeeded by Imamate of Futa Toro (1776–1877 CE)

• Kingdom of Saloum (1494–1871/1969 CE)

• Kingdom of Baddibu (pre–1861 CE)

• Walata Kingdom (pre 15th century CE–?)

• Bariba kingdoms: (pre–16th century, 1783–19th century CE)

  • Nikki
  • Illo
  • Busa
  • Others: Kandi, Kaiama, Kwande (List of rulers of Kwande), Parakou, Djougou

• Kingdom of Niumi/Barra (15th century–1897/1911 CE)

• Kasa/Kasanga Kingdom (15th century–1830 CE)

• Nanumba Kingdom (15th century CE–?)

• Asebu Kingdom (15th century CE–?)

• Simpa/Fetu/Winneba Kingdom (15th century–1720/? CE)

• Eguafo/Aguafo Kingdom (15th century CE–?)

• Okrika/Wakirike Kingdom (?–1913 CE)

• Agona/Denkyira Kingdom (1500–1701 CE)

• Akim kingdom (c. 1500–c. 1899)

• Kingdom of Koya/Temne/Quoja (1505–1896 CE)

• Igala Kingdom (1507–1900/present CE)

• Kingdom of Gã (1510 CE–?/present)

• Yamta/Biu Kingdom (1535–1900 CE)

• Kaabu Empire (1537–1867 CE)

• Kingdom of Cayor (1549–1879 CE)

• Kingdom of Baol (1555–1874 CE)

• Akwamu Kingdom (1560–1733/present CE) preceded by Twifo Kingdom (1480–1560 CE)

• Emirate of Tagant (1580–19th century CE)

• Pashalik of Timbuktu (1591–1833 CE)

  • Djenné, Gao and either Bamba, Mopti or Bamba, Gao Region were very autonomous with only nominal Timbuktu rule

• Tougana Kingdom (1591 CE–?) and Gorouol Kingdom

• Kingdom of Bissau (pre 16th century–1915/present CE)

• Kingdom of the Sapes (CE pre–16th century) succeeded by:

  • Bullom
  • Loko (Loko people)
  • Bureh/Bure
  • Sherbro (Sherbro people)

• Baté Empire (16th century–19th century CE)

• Idoma Kingdom (?–? CE)

• Huba/Kilba Kingdom (16th century–1904 CE)

• Wassa kingdoms (16th/17th century–?)

• Kwahu (16th/17th century–?)

• Biafada Kingdoms:

  • Guinala/Quinala (pre 15th century CE–?)
  • Biguba
  • Bissege (Bissagos Islands?)

• Kingdom of Sukur/Margi (16th century CE–?)

• Kingdom of Dwaben/Dwabeng (1600/1874 CE–?)

• Nembe Kingdom (1639–1884/present CE)

• Emirate of Trarza (1640–1902/present CE)

• Emirate of Brakna (17th century–19th century CE)

• Kénédougou Kingdom (1650–1898 CE)

• Gyaman/Jamang/Abron Kingdom (1650–1888/1897 CE)

• Kingdom of Kaarta (1610–1870/1904 CE)

• Asante/Ashanti Empire (1680–1896/1902 CE, 1935–1957/present CE)

• Imamate of Nasr ad–Din (1673–1674 CE)

• Khasso/Xaaso Kingdom (1681–1880 CE)

• Bundu Kingdom (1690–1858 CE)

• Sefwi Kingdoms: (pre 17th century CE–?)

  • Assini
  • Abripiquem
  • Ankobra
  • Nzima Kingdom (18th century CE–?) (formed by combining Abripiquem, Ankobra and Jomoro)

• Lafia Emirate (17th century CE–?/present)

• Aowin Kingdom (?–?/present)

• Kalabari Kingdom (pre 1699–1900/present CE)

• Gbe speaking peoples;

  • Aja/Adja Kingdoms
    • Tado (a primary dispersal point for Gbe speaking groups)
  • Ewe Kingdoms: (pre–1710/? CE)
    • Notsé/Notsie/Nuadja Kingdom (15th century CE–?/present)
    • Anlo
    • Peki
    • Kpando
    • Kingdom of Agwe (1812–1895/present CE)
    • Ho
  • Fon and closely related Kingdoms
    • Kingdom of Ardra/Allada (1440–1894/present CE)
    • Kingdom of Whydah/Ouidah (1580–1727/present CE)
    • Kingdom of Dahomey (1600–1900/present CE)
      • Agaja dynasty (1600–1818 CE)
      • Ghezo dynasty (1818–1900 CE)
    • Hogbonu Kingdom (17th century–1863/1908/present CE)
    • Kingdom of Savalou kingdom of the Mahi (1557–1769/1894/present CE)
    • Peda/Popo kingdom/s:
      • Grand Popo/Pla/Hulagan Kingdom (pre 17th century CE–?) and Djanglanmey
      • Little Popo/Gen/Glidji/Aného Kingdom (1750–1883/1885 CE)
      • Aghwey/Agoué (19th century CE)
    • Wémè Kingdom (17th century–18th century CE)

• Asen (17th century CE)

• Kingdom of Dubréka (17th century–19th century CE)

• Imamate of Futa Jallon (1700–1881/1912 CE)

• Keana (1700–1900 CE)

• Kong Empire (1710–1894 CE)

• Kingdom of Baule (1710–1893/present CE)

• Bamana Empire of Segu/Segou (1600–1861 CE)

• Gwiriko Kingdom (1714–1890/1915 CE)

• Bethio Principality (1724 CE–?/present)

• Akropong–Akuapem Kingdom (1730 CE–?/present)

• Gumel (1749–1903 CE)

• Dosso Kingdom (1750–1849 CE, 1856–1898/present CE)

• Keffi (1750–1802/1902 CE)

• Lafia Kingdom (1780 CE–1873/1900/present)

• Akwa Akpa (1786–1896/present CE)

• Lebou Republic (1790–1857/present CE)

• Kingdom of Jakin (pre-18th century–? CE)

• Anyi kingdoms: (18th century–19th century CE)

  • Kingdom of Sanwi
  • Kingdom of Indénié
  • Kingdom of Bettié
  • Kingdom of Moronou
  • Kingdom of Diabe (Dabou?)

• Solima Kingdom (18th century–1884 CE)

• Kingdom of Apollonia (18th century–?)

• Kunaari (18th century–19th century CE)

• Kotokolia (18th century CE–?/present)

• Sankaran Kingdom (18th century CE–?)

• Mahi kingdoms: (18th century–19th century CE)

  • Fitta kingdom
  • Savalu kingdom

19th century CE – present

• Manya Krobo (?–19th century CE)
• Adrar (1800–1909 CE)
• Sokoto Caliphate (1804–1904/present CE)
• Potiskum Emirate (1809–1901 CE)
• Massina Empire (1818–1862 CE)
• Emirate of Say (1825–? CE)
• Bedde kingdom (1825–1902 CE)
• Aku kingdom (1826–1880 CE)
• Jere/Qeko Kingdom (1840 CE–?/present)
• Kabadougou Kingdom (1848–1898/1980 CE)
• Toucouleur Empire (1852–1893 CE)
• Zabarma Emirate (1860–1897 CE)
• Fuladu Kingdom (1867–1903/present CE)
• Wassoulou Empire (1878–1898 CE) preceded by Wasulu (mid 17th century CE–?)
• Dubreka Kingdom (pre–1885/1906 CE)
• Solimana (19th century CE)
• Kissi Kingdom (19th century CE)
• Kiang Kingdom (19th century CE)
• Jimara Kingdom (19th century CE)
• Tomani Kingdom (19th century CE)
• Kantora Kingdom (19th century CE)
• Niamina Kingdom (19th century CE)
• Foni Kingdom (19th century CE)
• Eropina Kingdom (19th century CE)
• Opobo (19th century CE)

Central Africa

Further information: History of Central Africa

This is a list of kingdoms and empires in Central Africa that we know about.

7th century – 12th century CE

• Kanem Empire (692–1380 CE) succeeded by Bornu Empire (1380–1893 CE) (NSM in Nigeria)
  • Duguwa/Zaghawa dynasty (700–1085 CE)
  • Sayfawa dynasty (1085–1846 CE) succeeded by Rabih az–Zubayr
  • Buffer states against the Tuareg: Damagram, Muniyo, Machina, Gaskeru, Tunbi^: 511 
• Sao city-states (1100/1400–15th century CE)
• Seven Kingdoms of Kongo dia Nlaza (pre 13th century-16th century CE) included the kingdoms of Mbata, Mpangu, and Nsundi
• Vungu (pre 13th century–?)
• Mpemba (pre 13th century-14th century) included the kingdoms of Mpemba Kasi and Vunda
• Kakongo (pre 13th century–1885 CE)
• Ngoyo (pre 13th century–1885 CE)
• Kibunga^: 29  (?–14th century CE)

13th century – 18th century CE

• Kingdom of Ndongo/Ngola (1358–1671/1909/present CE) (NSM in Angola) (List of Ngolas of Ndongo)

• Kingdom of Kongo (1390–1678 CE, 1691–1857/1914 CE, 1915–1975/present CE) (NSM in Angola)

  • Kongo Civil War: (1665–1709 CE) led to Kongo fracturing into smaller kingdoms, to be later reunited by Pedro IV of Kongo:
    • Kibangu (Manuel I of Kibangu)
    • Lemba (João II of Lemba)
    • Nsonso/Nkondo (Afonso II of Kongo and Nkondo) (assuming Nsonso/Sonso and Nkondo are the same)
    • Mbamba Lovata (Manuel II of Kongo)

• Anziku/Tio/Teke Kingdom^: ix  (14th century–1880)

• Tikar Fondoms: (1390/pre 18th century CE–?/present) (Tikar people) (preceded by Nganha and the Mbum people (Mbum language))

  • Tinkala
  • Bamkin
  • Ngambè–Tikar
  • First wave:
    • Bamum (1390–1884/present CE) (NSM in Cameroon) (List of rulers of the Bamum)
    • Nditam/Bandam
    • Ngoumé
    • Gâ (not to be confused with Ga–Adangbe)
    • Nso (NSM in Cameroon)
  • Second wave:
  • Kong (not Kong Empire)
  • Kom (NSM in Cameroon)
  • Ndu (Second degree NSM in Cameroon)
  • Bankim

• Bamileke Fondoms: (pre 14th century CE–?) (over 100 in total)

  • Bafoussam (pre 14th century CE–?/present) (Second degree NSM in Cameroon)
  • Bandjoun (16th century CE–?/present) (NSM in Cameroon)
  • Bafang
  • Bafam (NSM in Cameroon)
  • Bangangté (NSM in Cameroon)
  • Batoufam (second degree NSM in Cameroon)
  • Bawaju
  • Dschang
  • Mbouda

• Luba Empire (14th/15th/16th century–1885/present CE) (NSM in Democratic Republic of the Congo) (List of rulers of Luba) (Luba-Katanga language)

• Mwene Muji^: ix  (c. 1400–early 20th century CE)

• Kotoko kingdom (15th century–19th century CE) vassals:

  • Kousséri
  • Logone–Birni
  • Makari
  • Mara

• Sultanate of Yao (17th century–1909 CE) (Bilala people) (Yao)

• Nsanga^: 30  (?–15th century CE)

• Masinga^: 30  (?–15th century CE)

• Wembo^: 31  (?–15th/16th century CE)

• Wandu^: 31  (?–15th century CE)

• Ibom/Mbot Abasi Kingdom (Second degree NSM in Cameroon) (Aro–Ibibio Wars) preceded by Akwa Akpa (Ibibio) (not Akwa Akpa (Efik))

• Dembos^: ix  (pre-1550–?) (confederation composed of 15 states)

• Kisama^: ix  (pre-1550–?)

• Suku^: ix  (pre-1550–?) (Suku people)

• Kingdom of Matamba (pre-1550–1744 CE)

• Nsonso (pre-1550–?)

• Okango^: ix  (pre-1550–?)

• Mandara Kingdom (1500–1893/present CE) (NSM in Cameroon)

• Kasanze Kingdom (1500–1648 CE)

• Mbunda Kingdom (1500–1917/present CE) (NSM in Angola) (Rulers of Mbundaland)

• Sultanate of Bagirmi (1513–1899/present CE) (NSM in Chad) (List of rulers of Bagirmi)

• Kingdom of Bandjoun/Baleng (1545 CE–?/present) (NSM in Cameroon)

• Kingdom of Loango (1550–1883/present CE) (NSM in Republic of the Congo) (Nzari)

• Mutombo Mukulu^: 120  (pre-16th century–? CE) (buffer state between Luba and Lunda)

• Duala Kingdom (16th century–1879 CE) (Duala people) (Douala) (Monneba) (List of rulers of the Duala)

• Nzakara Kingdom^{: 560  : 203}  (16th century–? CE) (Nzakara language) (Ngbandi people)

• Kalundwe^{: 589–599}  (?–? CE)

• Kalonja^: 589  (?–? CE)

• Kanyok (?–?, 1780–1810/? CE)

• Luvale kingdom (?–? CE)

• Humbe Kingdom^: 570  (16th century CE–?) (Nyanyeka)

• Muzumbu a Kalungu (16th century CE–?)

• Libolo kingdom (early 16th century–?) (Mbondo broke away in the 16th century)

• Ovimbundo Kingdoms: (Ovimbundu) (missing one)

  • Kulembe/Kalembe ka Njanja (16th century CE–?) (near Libolo)^: 570 
  • Bailundo (1700–1770/present CE) (NSM in Angola)
  • Viye/Bie (1700 CE–?/present) (NSM in Angola)
  • Wambu/Huambo/Hambo/Huamba (NSM in Angola)
  • Ciyaka/Quiyaca/Quiaca
  • Ngalangi/Galangue
  • Civula/Quibula
  • Ndulu/Andulo/Ondulo/Ondura
  • Cingolo/Quingolo (?–1770 CE/?)
  • Kalukembe/Caluqembe/Caluguembe/Caluqueme (pre 1740 CE–?)
  • Sambu
  • Ekekete/Quiquete
  • Kakonda/Cilombo–conoma/Caconda/Quilombo
  • Citata/Quitata

• Benguela Kingdom (16th century–1615/present CE)

• Kingdom of Bandjoun [fr] (16th century–1926 CE)

• Kasanje Kingdom (1620–1910/present CE) (NSM in Angola) preceded by Imbangala

• Kuba Kingdom (1625–1884/present CE) (NSM in Democratic Republic of the Congo)

• Kingdom of Matamba (1631–1744 CE)

• Wadai Empire (1635–1912/present CE) (NSM in Chad) (List of rulers of Wadai)

  • Dar Runga as a vassal

• Soyo Kingdom (1650 CE–?)

• Empire of Lunda (1665–1887/present CE) (NSM in Democratic Republic of the Congo) preceded by Rund Kingdom

• Bashi Kingdom (pre 17th century CE–?)

• Kingdom of Mbwila (pre 17th century CE–?) (generally maintained independence by playing Portuguese Angola and Kongo off of one another)

• Kingdom of Bouna (17th century CE–?)

• Guiziga Bui Marva^{: 107–110}  (17th century–1795 CE)

• Bemba/Buddu kingdom^{: 332–333}  (17th century CE–?/present) (Bemba people) (NSM in Zambia)

• Yaka Kingdom (17th century–19th century CE) (Yaka people)

• Boma Kingdom/Ibar (17th century–19th century CE)

• Bozanga Kingdom (17th century–? CE)

• Zaghawa kingdoms:^: 308  (17th century–18th century/?) (Zaghawa people)

  • Dar Kimr
  • Kobe

• Pende kingdom (?–? CE) (Pende people)

• Bolia Kingdom (18th century CE–?)

• Kingdom of Orungu (1700–1873/1927/present CE) (NSM in Gabon) (List of rulers of Orungu)

• Sultanate of Damagaram (1731–1899 CE) (NSM of Niger) (buffer state between Kanem-Bornu and the Tuareg)

• Kazembe Kingdom (1740–1894/present CE) (NSM in Zambia) (Eastern Lunda)

• Mangbetu kingdom (1750–1895 CE) (Mangbetu people)

• Fondom of Bafut (?–1907/present CE) (NSM in Cameroon)

• Mankon Fondom (1799–1901/present CE) (NSM in Cameroon)

• Bangassou Sultanate (pre 18th century CE–?/present) (NSM in Central African Republic)

• Azande Kingdom (18th century CE–1905/present) (NSM in South Sudan)

19th century CE – present

• Zande sultanates: (19th century CE)
  • Sultanate of Zemio (1823–?/1923 CE)
  • Sultanate of Rafaï
• Dar al Kuti Sultanate (1830–1911 CE) (NSM in Central African Republic)
• Yeke Kingdom (1856–1891 CE)
• Sultanate of Utetera (1860–1887 CE) (Tippu Tip)
• Kingdom of Rabih az–Zubayr (1880s–1900 CE) (conquered the Bornu Empire)
• Lusinga's kingdom (1880s CE)
• Tupuri Kingdom of Doré [fr] (19th century CE) (Wang Doré)
• South Kasai (1960–1962 CE) (monarchy proclaimed in 1961)
• Central African Empire (1976–1979 CE)

Southern Africa

Further information: History of Southern Africa

This is a and may never be able to satisfy particular standards for completeness. You can help by to add missing items, with references to .

A non-exhaustive list of kingdoms and empires in Southern Africa that we have record of:

7th century – 12th century CE

• Toutswe (10th century–13th century CE)

• Mapela (1055–1400 CE)

13th century – 18th century CE

• Kingdom of Mapungubwe (1220–1300 CE) preceded by Leopard's Kopje and K2

  (Shona and Venda)

• Kingdom of Great Zimbabwe (11th/13th century–16th/17th century CE)

• Kingdom of Tonge (?–? CE) (Manyikeni)

• Thulamela (13th century–17th century CE)

• Nambya state (14th century–? CE) (Nambya people)

• Empire of Mutapa/Mwenemutapa (1330/15th century–1888 CE)

• Kingdom of Butua (1450–1683 CE) (Torwa dynasty)

• Rozwi Empire (1480–1866 CE)

• Empire of Maravi (1480–1891/present CE) (NSM in Zambia)

• Kingdom of Barue (15th century–? CE)

• Teve kingdom/Uteve/Kiteve (15th century–?) (possibly preceded by a larger kingdom from the 10th century)

• Madanda (?–1820s CE)

• Manyika kingdom/Manica^: 168  (pre-16th century–19th century CE) (Manyika people)

  • Mutasa dynasty

• Ngulube Kingdoms:^{: 300–301}  (16th century CE–?)

  • Ulambya Kingdom^: 55–66  (Lambya people)
  • Ngonde Kingdom (1600 CE–?) (NSM in Malawi) (southern Nyakyusa people)
  • Chifungwe Kingdom (Fungwe people in Mafinga District)^: 309 
  • Sukwa Kingdom^: 135  (Sukwa people)
  • others: (Kameme, Misuku, Mwaphoka Mwambele, Kanyenda, Kabunduli, Kaluluma, and Chulu)^: 309 

• Lozi Empire (16th century–1838, 1864–1899 CE) (NSM in Zambia) (Lozi people)

• Ovambo kingdoms: (16th century–late 19th/early 20th century CE) (Ovambo people)

  • Ondonga (1650 CE–?/present) (NSM in Namibia) (split into Oshitambi and Onamayongo during civil war (1885–1908 CE))^: 146  (List of Ondonga kings)
  • Uukwanyama (NSM in Namibia) (Battle of the Cunene) (Mandume ya Ndemufayo)
  • Ongandjera (?–?/present) (NSM in Namibia)
  • Uukwaluudhi (pre 1850 CE–?/present) (NSM in Namibia) (List of Uukwaluudhi kings)
  • Uukwambi (NSM in Namibia)
  • Uukolonkadhi/Uukolonkathi (NSM in Namibia)
  • Ombadja (NSM in Namibia) (Mbadja people)
  • Evale^{: 124–130} 
  • Ombalantu^{: 135–137}  (NSM in Namibia)
  • May not be Ovambo or kingdoms: Eunda/Ehanda, Ombwenge (short–lived invasion of Ondonga),^: 116  (Oukwanka/Onkwanka, Okafima, Oukumbi/Onkumbi, Eshinga, Okavango),^: 122 

• Southern Ndebele Kingdoms: (Southern Ndebele people)

  • Ndebele (16th century CE–?) split into:
    • Manala (NSM in South Africa)
    • Ndzundza (NSM in South Africa)

• Tembe kingdom (16th century–1885 CE) (Maputsu split away c. 1800 to form his own kingdom) (Tembe people)

• Nyaka kingdom (16th century–? CE)

• Belingane kingdom (16th century–? CE)

• Mbara kingdom (?–? CE)

• Mabhudu Kingdom (?–? CE)

• Singo state (17th century–late 18th century CE) succeeded by several Venda kingdoms

• Maungwe (17th century–1889/1896 CE)

• Swaziland/Eswatini (1745 CE–present) (SM of Eswatini) (List of monarchs of Eswatini)

• Tswana kingdoms: (dynasties going back to the 15th century) (Tswana people) (Kweneng' Ruins)

  • Ngwaketse (1750–1885/present CE) (NSM in Botswana)
  • Barolong (1760–1885/present CE) (NSM in Botswana)
  • Ngwato (1780–1885/present CE) (NSM in Botswana)
  • Batlôkwa (1780–1885/present CE) (NSM in Botswana and South Africa) (List of rulers of Tlôkwa)
  • Batawana (1795–1885/present CE) (NSM in Botswana)
  • Batlhaping (18th century CE–?)
  • Balete (pre 1805–1885/present CE) (NSM in Botswana) (List of rulers of Lete (Malete))

• Xhosa Kingdom (1775–1879/present CE) (NSM in South Africa) (List of Xhosa kings)

• Thembu kingdom (?–1885 CE/present) (NSM in South Africa)

• Mpondomise kingdom (?–? CE) (AmaMpondomise)

• Ndwandwe Kingdom (1780–1819 CE)

• Hlubi Kingdom (c. 1780 CE–1800/1848/present) (NSM in South Africa) (c. 1800 split into factions and incorporated into Cape Colony, except for Langalibalele's kingdom, which later migrated into British Natal c. 1848)

• Mpondo kingdom (1780 CE–1867/present) (Mpondo people) (NSM in South Africa)

• Kavango kingdoms: (Kavango people)

  • Okavango^: 122 
  • Gciriku (1785 CE–?/present) (NSM in Namibia) (List of Gciriku kings)
  • Mbukushu (NSM of Namibia)
  • Shambyu (NSM of Namibia)
  • Mbunza (NSM of Namibia)
  • Kwangali (NSM of Namibia)

• Mthethwa Empire (18th century–1820 CE)

• Nkhamanga Kingdom (18th century–? CE)

• Marota/Pedi Kingdom (late 18th century–1882 CE, 1885 CE–present) (NSM in South Africa) (Pedi people) (Mampuru II)

19th century CE – present

• Balobedu Kingdom (1800 CE–?/present) (Lobedu people) (NSM in South Africa) (Rain Queen)
• Cornelius Kok I's land (1813–1857 CE)
• Ngoni Kingdom (1815–1857/present CE)
• Zulu Kingdom (1816–1897/present CE) (NSM in South Africa)
• Lesotho (1822 CE–present) (SM of Lesotho) (List of monarchs of Lesotho)
• Gaza Empire (1824–1895 CE)
• Adam Kok's land (1826–1861 CE)
• Nxaba's kingdom (?–1837 CE)
• Kololo Kingdom (1838–1864 CE) (conquered the Lozi Empire) (Kololo people)
• Kingdom of Mthwakazi/Ndebele (1840–1895 CE) (Northern Ndebele people)