description Kingdom of Burundi Overview
The Kingdom of Burundi was an independent monarchy located in the African Great Lakes region, established historically and maintained until the late 20th century. It was governed by a traditional sovereign known as the mwami, drawn from the Ganwa aristocracy. Following its independence from Belgium in 1962, the kingdom persisted for a few years under Mwambutsa IV and Ntare V. The monarchy was permanently abolished in 1966 when Michel Micombero led a military coup, subsequently declaring a republic.
help Kingdom of Burundi FAQ
What was the Kingdom of Burundi?
It was a monarchy in the African Great Lakes region governed by a traditional royal institution. Burundi became independent in 1962 as a constitutional monarchy before the monarchy ended in 1966.
What did the title mwami mean in Burundi?
Mwami was the title of the sovereign, with abami as the plural form. The mwami stood at the head of the Ganwa aristocracy and the wider traditional political system.
When did the Burundian monarchy end?
The monarchy was abolished on November 28, 1966, when Michel Micombero proclaimed a republic. The last monarch, Ntare V Ndizeye, had taken the throne only a few months earlier on July 8, 1966.
What changed when Burundi became independent?
Independence in 1962 did not immediately remove the monarchy. Burundi became an independent constitutional kingdom in which Mwambutsa IV remained the mwami while parliament received legislative authority.
explore Explore More
Similar to Kingdom of Burundi
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
