Torgbui Amenya Fiti V, the supreme chief of the traditional region of Aflao in the Volta region of Ghana, was elected on July 10, 2023, in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as the President of the Forum of African Kings and Traditional Chiefs, replacing Godefroid Munongo Mwenda Bantou, according to our colleagues at KOACI.
Upon taking the oath, Torgbui Fiti V stated that traditional authorities across the continent are important sources of customs, traditions, and heritage, and they deserve the importance and respect necessary to conduct business from the continent.
Continuing his oath declaration, the new “King of African Kings” stated that traditional authorities over the years have played a central role in dispute resolution, shaping national discourses, and ensuring peaceful coexistence and security on the continent, which, according to him, is necessary for the continent’s progress.
Indeed, the Forum of African Kings and Traditional Chiefs is a coordinating body for traditional leaders (including kings, queens, and princes) from various sovereign traditional authorities who exchange ideas and strategies, discuss partnership opportunities with governments and stakeholders, and seek to address issues that undermine the black continent.
The Minister of Culture and Arts, Catherine Kantu Furah, on behalf of the Congolese Prime Minister, confirmed the government’s determination to cooperate with traditional authorities across the black continent.
As a reminder, Congolese King Mwami Godefroid Munongo Mwenda Bantou led the Forum of African Kings and Traditional Chiefs since 2015. He succeeded Mouammar Kadhafi after his assassination, with the late President of Libya being the founder of this continental structure and the first to lead it.
