Throughout history, queens haven’t just graced thrones, they’ve charged into battle. expand more, these women defied expectations, wielding both power and the sword. Here are 10 African Queens and Female Warriors who have made a significant contribution to their society.
1. Queen Amina of Zaria
Queen Amina of Zaria was a Hausa warrior queen of Zazzau (now Zaria City, Nigeria), she expanded her kingdom’s boundaries and is known for her military campaigns and the construction of fortified walls around her city.
2. Queen Amanirenas
Queen Amanirenas, The Kandake (queen) of Kush, she led her armies against the Romans in a five-year war, successfully defending her kingdom from conquest.
3. Queen Nzinga Mbande
Queen of the Ndongo and Matamba Kingdoms (in present-day Angola), she was a skilled military strategist and diplomat who resisted Portuguese colonization and the slave trade in the 17th century.
4. Yaa Asantewaa
Yaa Asantewaa was the queen mother of Ejisu in the Ashanti Empire, Found in present day Ghana Country. she led the Ashanti rebellion known as the War of the Golden Stool against British colonialism in 1900.
5. Ranavalona I
Ranavalona I was the first reigning queen of Madagascar, known for her fierce resistance against French colonialism and her efforts to maintain Malagasy cultural identity.
6. Makeda, Queen of Sheba
Makeda, Queen of Sheba: The legendary ruler of the Kingdom of Sheba, she is celebrated for her wisdom and the prosperous trade routes established under her reign.
7. Candace Empress of Ethiopia
Candace Empress of Ethiopia A title used for the queens of the Ethiopian empire, the Candaces were known for their political and military leadership.
8. Queen Moremi of Ile-Ife
Queen Moremi of Ile-Ife, A Yoruba queen, she is celebrated for her strategic importance in the liberation of the Yoruba tribe from oppression.
9. Queen Dahia-al Kahina
Queen Dahia-al Kahina, a Berber warrior queen, she led her people in the early 8th century against the Arab invaders in present-day Algeria.
10. Sarraounia Mangou
Sarraounia Mangou a chief/queen of the Anza people in Niger, she fought against the French colonial forces at the end of the 19th century.
Conclusion
These women were not only leaders but also symbols of courage and resilience, inspiring many generations across Africa and the world.