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The Azande
The Azande — the plural form of “Zande” in their own language — are an ethnic group found across North‑Central Africa.They located in the northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) the south‑central and southwestern regions of South Sudan, and the southeastern part of the Central African Republic.
In the DRC, Azande communities are found in Orientale Province along the Uele River, including Dungu, Duruma, Isiro and Kisangani. In the Central African Republic, they live in the districts of Bangasu, Obo and Rafai. In South Sudan, Azande populations are concentrated in Central and Western Equatoria and Western Bahr al‑Ghazal, in towns such as Yei, Maridi, Yambio, Tambura, Deim Zubeir, Wau, and Momoi.
Restoration of the Azande Kingdom
The Azande Kingdom is one of the oldest Kingdoms in Africa. It was divided and destroyed by the colonial powers ending with the killing of King Gbudue in 1905. After more than a century, the Azande Kingdom has been finally restored to enhance, preserve and promote the Azande culture, heritage and traditions. In February 2022, the Azande Kingdom (Kindo nga ga Azande) was restored with the coronation of His Majesty King (Bakindo) Atoroba Peni Rikito Gbudue.
In February 2022, the Azande Kingdom was re‑established after 117 years, following the death of King Gbudue at the hands of colonial forces in 1905. The Azande Kingdom, one of Africa’s oldest traditional institutions, had collapsed after the death of King Gbudue. More than a century later, the revival aims to strengthen, protect, and celebrate Azande culture, traditions, and heritage. The restored Kingdom also seeks to bring the Azande people together and promote peaceful coexistence with neighboring communities across Western Equatoria State and the wider South Sudan region.
Chieftancy
Structure of the Azande Kingdom
In South Sudan, the area of Azande Kingdom is made of four chieftaincies headed by Paramount Chiefs each.
In South Sudan, the area of Azande Kingdom is made of four chieftaincies headed by Paramount Chiefs each.
Each of these Paramount Chiefs are assisted by their Chiefs (Agbia), Sub-chiefs (Abairambia) and Headmen (Abairagbaria) in their countries (aringara).
Bakere Gbia Yambio
Paramount Chief of Yambio is His Majesty Atoroba Peni Rikito Gbudue, Bakindo - King of the Azande.
Bakere Gbia Tambura
Paramount Chief of Tambura is Mboribamu Baabe Renzi Tambura
Bakere Gbia Ezo
Paramount Chief of Ezo is Anthony Ture Gbatanyaki.
Bakere Gbia Ibba
Paramount Chief of Ibba (Mange) is the late Paramount Chief Faustino Roro Marona Sako.
Baira Abanyaki
The management of the Azande Kingdom is administered by Prince (Wiri Bakindo), Tadeo
Mario Sasa who is the Prime Minister (Baira Abanyaki) of the Kingdom.
Azande Supreme Welfare Organization
The Azande Supreme Welfare Organization is a non‑political, community‑driven body committed to enhancing the social, cultural, and economic well‑being of Azande people across the globe. It works to strengthen unity among Azande communities, safeguard and celebrate Azande cultural heritage, and promote sustainable development initiatives that uplift present and future generations.
Ceremonial attire and adornment
Agriculture and Food Production
Traditional Instruments and Weapons
Arts - Wood Carving
Metalworks and Weapons
Azande nakusa mara tipa dungu ahee.
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Gita - Hoe
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Dewedi - Axe
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Mambere
Zande knife of traditional design
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Paso - Iron Spear
Traditionally used for hunting and warfare; these were historically significant items used to pay dowry to secure a marriage
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Iron Spears
Traditionally used for hunting and warfare; these were historically significant items used to pay dowry to secure a marriage