The 10 Most Affluent Tribes In Africa

Africa has a long history of diverse tribes, languages and ethnic groups. Some tribes have grown wealthy over time through business, trade, natural resources or tourism. Here’s a quick look at a few of the richest tribes on the continent.

The Yoruba Tribe – Nigeria

The Yoruba people originate from southwestern Nigeria, a region known for its fertile land and abundance of natural resources. Majority of the Yoruba people are farmers, traders, and craftsmen. Some of the major sources of wealth for the Yoruba tribe are cocoa farming, palm oil production, and trading. Prominent Yoruba business moguls include Mike Adenuga and Folorunsho Alakija, ranked by Forbes as the second and first richest persons in Africa with a net worth of over $2 billion and $6 billion respectively.

The Zulu Tribe – South Africa

The Zulu tribe originated from Nguni tribes who migrated down from central Africa around the 15th century. Under King Shaka Zulu, the tribe grew rapidly and became the most powerful tribe, controlling much of the eastern coast of South Africa. Today, the Zulu tribe makes up nearly 22% of South Africa’s population.

The Zulu tribe is known for vibrant cultural traditions like beadwork, basketry, and singing. Cattle herding and subsistence farming remain major sources of wealth. The Zulu royal family and tribal authorities control about 3 million hectares of land. Prominent Zulu businesspersons include Patrice Motsepe, South Africa’s first black billionaire, and members of the royal family like Misuzulu Sinqobile kaZwelithini, the current Zulu king.

The Bapedi Tribe – South Africa

The Bapedi tribe (also known as Pedi and Basotho), originated from the central parts of South Africa. They are the third largest ethnic group in South Africa with over 4 million people. Cattle farming and agriculture are their major sources of wealth. Some of the wealthiest people in Pedi tribe own large cattle farms, agricultural farms, transport companies, and retail businesses.

The Hausa & Fulani Tribe – Nigeria, Niger, Chad

The Hausa and Fulani tribes of Northern Nigeria, Niger and Chad are the largest ethnic groups in West Africa. For centuries, they were prominent traders and built their wealth through trade and cattle herding. Today, the Hausa and Fulani dominate business and politics in Northern Nigeria. Aliko Dangote, the richest man in Africa, is Hausa, and has built his $15.2 billion fortune in cement, sugar and flour milling. The Sultan of Sokoto, the spiritual leader of Nigeria’s 70 million Muslims, is Fulani. Though there is tension between the groups, their shared faith and economic interests unite them.

The Igbo Tribe – Nigeria

The Igbo tribe, one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, are renowned for their entrepreneurial and business skills. Originally from the southeastern region, the Igbo built their wealth through trade and commerce, especially the palm oil trade. Igbo traders spread through Nigeria and set up successful businesses, accumulating wealth and property.

Today, the Igbo dominate many sectors of business in Nigeria, from manufacturing and finance to construction and technology. Prominent Igbo businessmen, like Arthur Eze and Tony Elumelu, built vast fortunes through industries like politics, banking, and investments. The Igbo value education and hard work, which has enabled their success. Their major cultural centers remain in cities like Enugu, Aba, Onitsha and Nnewi, which feature some of the largest markets in West Africa.

The Igbo continue to spread their influence in business and culture across Nigeria and globally. Their tenacity, ambition and entrepreneurial skills have made them one of the wealthiest and most prosperous tribes in Africa.

Suri Tribe – Ethiopia, Sudan

The Suri tribe inhabits southwestern Ethiopia and South Sudan. For centuries, they lived as cattle herders and were relatively isolated. Their wealth stems from the value of their livestock, especially cattle. The more cattle a Suri man owns, the more respect he garners.

Some of the richest Suri own over 200 cattle, which provides a steady income from the sale of livestock, dairy products, and hides. The wealthiest Suri live in larger huts and wear more elaborate lip plates and beaded jewelry. They are also more likely to take additional wives, as bridewealth is paid in cattle.

Cattle are central to Suri life and culture. Their importance is highlighted in Suri songs, dances, and body art. Young Suri boys are given a bull at puberty to care for. When a man dies, his cattle are sacrificed at his funeral. Truly, for the Suri, wealth is measured in cows.

The Ashanti Tribe – Ghana

The Ashanti tribe of Ghana is one of the wealthiest tribes in Africa. Originally from the Ashanti Kingdom, the Ashanti people make up about 14.8% of Ghana’s population. They are known for their rich cultural heritage, traditional leadership, and gold. The Ashanti Kingdom was built on gold, and today Ashanti gold jewelry and other gold items are world renowned.

Several Ashanti royals and businessmen are extremely wealthy, including Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II, the Ashanti king, and businessman Sir Sam Jonah. The Ashanti tribe is also home to many successful musicians, like Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, and Shatta Wale.

The Asantehene, or Ashanti king, is one of the richest monarchs in Ghana. He presides over the Ashanti Kingdom from the Golden Stool, a sacred throne and a symbol of the unity of the Ashanti people. The Ashanti Kingdom is a hotspot for tourism, bringing in revenue through cultural exhibits, festivals, and more.

El Molo Tribe – Kenya

The El Molo tribe is one of Kenya’s smallest ethnic groups, with a population of about 1,000 people. Historically nomadic hunter-gatherers, the El Molo settled around Lake Turkana in northern Kenya. Known as “the people who eat fish” for their diet of Nile perch and catfish, fishing and tourism now provide most of the tribe’s income. Some El Molo have become wealthy operating lodges and camps for visitors eager to experience the dramatic landscapes of Lake Turkana.

Xhosa Tribe – South Africa

The Xhosa people are South Africa’s second largest ethnic group. Originally from central Africa, the Xhosa migrated south and settled in the Eastern Cape, where they established the Xhosa Kingdom. Today, many Xhosa live in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape provinces.

The Xhosa are known for their cultural traditions, including intricate beadwork, basketry, and a distinctive musical style. Cattle ranching and agriculture are also an important part of Xhosa culture. Some of South Africa’s most prominent leaders, like Nelson Mandela, came from the Xhosa tribe.

Oromo Tribe – Ethiopia

The Oromo people are the largest ethnic group in Ethiopia, making up about 34% of the population. Originally pastoralists, the Oromo migrated from the lower Shebelle and Jubba rivers in southern Somalia beginning in the 16th century. Today, many Oromo live as farmers and traders.

The Oromo are known for their vibrant culture, from their distinct language, Afaan Oromo, to their memorable ceremonies and festivals. Their Gada system of governance and calendar has been practiced for centuries. Many Oromo live in the Oromia region, located in central Ethiopia, though large populations also live in Addis Ababa and other cities.

Some of the wealthiest Oromos include businessman Mohammed Al Amoudi, worth over $9 billion, and runners Kenenisa Bekele and Tirunesh Dibaba. The Oromo’s major sources of wealth are agriculture, trade, and remittances from the Oromo diaspora. The Oromo make up a vital and influential part of Ethiopia’s economy and heritage.

The majority of the richest tribes in Africa accumulated their wealth from natural resources like oil, minerals, and precious metals. Some tribes also built their fortune through trade, agriculture, and tourism. The wealthiest tribes often work to improve living standards within their communities by funding infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic development projects.

The Importance of Tribal Wealth in Modern Africa

Tribal wealth is critical for tribes in modern Africa. It provides economic security and political influence. Many tribes own land, natural resources like oil, gold and diamonds. This gives tribes economic power and a steady income stream.

Tribal wealth also allows tribes to fund education, healthcare and infrastructure for their people. Some tribes provide benefits like free university education, housing and healthcare for members. This raises the standard of living and future prospects of the tribe.

Politically, wealth gives tribes more influence over national politics. They can lobby governments, fund campaigns and shape policies in their favor. Some governments rely on tribal leaders to help maintain security and order in remote areas. This dependence gives tribes political leverage.

In conclusion, tribal wealth in modern Africa provides economic, educational and political benefits. It allows tribes to care for their members, shape national policies and maintain independence. For these reasons, tribal wealth remains highly important in Africa today.