10 African Gods To Know
There are as many gods as there are tribes, which has added to the richness of cultures in Africa. Although some gods are believed to be supreme and to possess similar attributes (e.g., Olodumare, Chukwu, Nuer, Juok, Nyame and Roog), there are numerous others known for specific acts or works. If you are curious to know about African gods and mythology that has inspired an array of storytelling, check out our compilation of ten powerful gods across Africa.
1. Alekwu
Alekwu is a potent god popular among the Idoma people of Northern Nigeria. He is popular for maintaining social order, protection, settlement of disputes, et cetera. A major feature of Alekwu is the ability to hunt down and kill his deterrent in 7 to 21 days. He is greatly feared for his ability to punish both offender and accomplice, if the crime is not reported and atonement made in seven days. Alekwu is omnipresent, able to protect and punish, distance being no barrier.
2. Sango
Sango is the Orisha god of thunder. He is powerful and his modality includes striking an offender down with lightning and thunder. If the offence includes a theft, such item is placed on the offender’s chest after he is struck down. Sango is regarded as the most powerful god in Africa and one of the most popular gods around the world. He is the god of vengeance, protection, social order and more. His symbol is a double headed-axe. The thunderstorm announces Sango’s presence.
3. Inkosazana (aka Nomkhubuluwana)
Inkosazana (aka Nomkhubuluwana) is the Zulu god referred to as the ‘mermaid.’ The South Africans believe that she manifests herself in other forms such as animals but she dwells in water. Inkosazana is the goddess of fertility and agriculture; she protects both young and old and appears only to the pure in heart. She is said to appear in murky waters as well as misty clouds. She comes in dreams and carries out healings for the sick and troubled.
4. Nana Buluku
Nana Buluku is a potent African goddess believed to be the supreme goddess among the Fon people of Benin and the Ewes of Togo, although her popularity goes beyond these places. She is, for example, called Nana Bukuu among the Yorubas and Olisabuluwa among the Igbos. She is the mother of the Sun and Moon twin gods – Mawu-Lisa. She is venerated in songs.
5. Ngai
Ngai is the god of creation according to the Kikuyus. He dwells on popular mountains in Africa and is believed to be present in other entities like rain, wind, sun, moon and stars, among others. They believe that he resides in fig trees too, where sacrifices are made to him at different times for different purposes, facing the Mount Kenya. He is also the one responsible for the death of humans.
6. Sho’risdal
Sho’risdal is a compassionate Berber goddess whose symbol is that of one looking down with palms open out to others. She is portrayed as the ‘The Mother of Bounty.’ She married Vyinsul, the god of death which is ironic because she is the god of life. It is believed that her moods define the seasons – winter, autumn, spring and summer.
7. Heka
Heka is one of the foremost gods of ancient Egypt. He is known for his ability to heal and perform magic. He is the originator of the caduceus; an image of two snakes twisted on a pole – a symbol of his power – now associated with the Greeks’ Hermes, used in medicine.
8. Mamlambo
Mamlambo, among the Zulus and South Africans, this goddess is believed to be the god of rivers. She is structured like a giant snake and resides in water. She is said to have the power to give wealth but equally bring about great misfortunes. She is said to consume the face and brains of her victims.
9. Achamán
Achamán: He is the supreme god of the Guanches on the island of Tenerife. He is the creator of fire, air and land. It is believed that all creatures derived their living from him. He lives in the heights but sometimes descends to consider his creations.
10. Mawu-Lisa
Mawu-Lisa. A twin god believed to be both male and female, the children of Nana Buluku, this god is the Moon (Mawu) and Sun (Lisa) god. S/He is believed to be in charge of the world order. The Dahomey Warriors who were in what is modern day Benin worshipped Mawu-Lisa
