Section 1: Women of Power – African Queens, Warriors, and Leaders
When we talk about ancient kingdoms in Africa, we often focus on kings and warriors. But African women were more than just mothers or wives — they were queens, warriors, advisors, and spiritual leaders. In many ancient African kingdoms, women played powerful roles in politics, warfare, business, and religion.The Role of African Women in Ancient Kingdoms
1.1 Queens Who Ruled
African history is rich with strong female rulers. Some led entire empires, while others guided from behind the scenes.
Queen Amina of Zazzau (Nigeria)
Queen Amina was a warrior queen from the ancient Hausa city-state of Zazzau (now Zaria, Nigeria). She ruled in the 16th century and led her army into battle herself. Amina expanded her territory far and wide and built walls around cities for protection — many of which still stand today. She showed that women could be both rulers and warriors.
Makeda, the Queen of Sheba (Ethiopia/Yemen)
Makeda, better known as the Queen of Sheba, ruled a powerful kingdom that included parts of Ethiopia and Yemen. She is known for visiting King Solomon in ancient Israel to exchange knowledge and wealth. She is a legendary figure in both the Bible and the Kebra Nagast, a sacred Ethiopian text. Her story highlights the diplomatic power of African women leaders.
Queen Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba (Angola)
Nzinga was a brilliant political and military leader in the 17th century. She fought against Portuguese colonization and slave trading. She used smart strategies, diplomacy, and even warfare to protect her people. Nzinga dressed in warrior clothes and even led troops into battle — proving that African women were fierce protectors of their kingdoms.
1.2 Female Warriors and Generals
Not all women were queens, but many were respected warriors or military leaders.
Dahomey Amazons (Benin)
In the Kingdom of Dahomey (present-day Benin), there was an all-female military group known as the Dahomey Amazons. These women were brave, well-trained, and feared across West Africa. They served as the king’s personal guard and fought in many wars. Their presence showed how women could stand equal to men in strength and courage.
The Role of African Women in Ancient Kingdoms
1.3 Women in Traditional Councils
In many African kingdoms, women were part of royal councils and had a say in important decisions.
- Among the Akan of Ghana, Queen Mothers had the power to choose or remove a king.
- Among the Igbo of Nigeria, Omu (female leaders) ruled side-by-side with male chiefs.
- In Ethiopia, noblewomen owned land and influenced imperial succession.
These systems were not based on modern ideas of feminism, but they gave women real authority in their communities.
Section 2: The Daily Life and Influence of Women in Ancient African Societies
Women in ancient Africa were not just leaders at the top. They influenced society from the ground up — as farmers, traders, healers, artists, and spiritual guides.
2.1 Women as Keepers of the Economy
In many African cultures, women controlled markets and trade. They sold food, crafts, fabrics, gold, salt, and other items. Markets were more than just places to shop — they were centers of community life and politics.
The Role of African Women in Ancient Kingdoms
- In Yoruba society (Nigeria), market women formed unions and had leaders called Iyalojas (market mothers).
- In Ghana, the Kaya Yei (female porters) and women traders have carried on a centuries-old tradition of economic strength.
- In Swahili coastal cities, women helped run businesses that traded with Arabia, India, and Persia.
2.2 Women as Farmers and Food Providers
Farming was (and still is) a major part of African life. Women grew crops, raised animals, and managed food supplies. They passed down knowledge about planting seasons, medicinal plants, and local foods.
- In ancient Egypt, women worked in the fields and helped with food storage and cooking.
- In the Sahel region, women planted millet, sorghum, and beans—vital crops for survival.
Their role in food production made them central to the survival of families and kingdoms.
2.3 Women as Spiritual Leaders and Healers
Religion was a key part of African life. Women served as priestesses, oracles, and herbalists.
- In Ancient Nubia, women often led religious ceremonies and were closely tied to the goddess worship system.
- In Yoruba religion, women can become Iyanifa, female priests who practice divination.
- The Sangomas of Southern Africa, mostly women, use herbs and spiritual knowledge to heal and guide.
These roles gave women spiritual power and influence over their communities’ beliefs and health.
2.4 Artists, Storytellers, and Knowledge Keepers
Oral tradition was central in ancient Africa. Women were often the ones who told stories, sang songs, and taught children about the past.
- In Mali’s griot tradition, both men and women passed down the history of kings, wars, and families.
- Women were known for weaving, pottery, beadwork, and body art — all important cultural expressions that told stories of the people.
By keeping stories alive, they kept the heart of the culture beating.
Section 3: The Legacy of African Women Today and How to Learn More
The power and impact of African women did not vanish with the fall of kingdoms. Their influence continues in modern African society — in politics, business, music, and more. Their legacy is alive in art, tradition, and the fight for women’s rights today.
3.1 Modern-Day Leaders Inspired by the Past
Many African women in the 21st century draw strength from ancient queens and warriors.
- Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first female president in Africa (Liberia), often spoke about the strength of African women in her speeches.
- Nigerian authors like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie write about women’s roles and freedoms, inspired by historical figures.
Movements across Africa today push for gender equality, often citing historical examples of female leadership as proof that African women have always had power.
3.2 Restoring Forgotten Stories
For a long time, colonial education and Western history books ignored the role of women in Africa’s past. But that is changing.
- African schools and universities are now studying and teaching about female rulers and warriors.
- Museums and art galleries are creating exhibitions to honor women like Queen Nzinga, Amina, and the Dahomey Amazons.
- Writers, filmmakers, and musicians are bringing ancient stories to life with fresh voices.
This helps young girls today see that they come from a long line of powerful women.
3.3 Supporting African Women’s Progress
Learning about the past can help support African women today. Many organizations are working to empower women through education, healthcare, and business opportunities.
To learn more and support such efforts, you can visit the UN Women Africa website:
👉 https://africa.unwomen.org
This organization focuses on gender equality and empowering women in Africa. They also highlight cultural stories, programs, and achievements across the continent.
3.4 The Message: African Women Were Never Silent
From ancient queens to everyday farmers, from spiritual guides to warriors, African women were never just “behind” the men. They led, created, defended, and taught. They were central to the survival and success of African kingdoms. Their legacy continues today.
It’s time to learn, share, and celebrate their stories. Because by honoring the past, we inspire the future.
Final Thoughts
The role of African women in ancient kingdoms was wide and powerful. They led nations, fought in wars, managed the economy, raised families, and kept culture alive. This history is not just for textbooks. It’s a living part of Africa’s soul.
By remembering and teaching these stories, we help build a world where African women are respected, heard, and celebrated — just as they were in the past.
Let their stories shine.
