Tenkamenin, The People's King

Tenkamenin, The People’s King

Tenkamenin reigned in what is modern day Ghana from 1062 to 1076 - who would have known right? Ghana reached great heights during the short reign of Tenkamenin. Through his tactful management of the gold trade across the Sahara desert in West Africa, Tenkamenin’s empire prospered economically.

Tenkamenin is known as the people’s king due to his empathy for his people. Each day he would ride out on horseback and listen to the problems and concerns of his people. As a result it became clear that Tenkamenin’s most significant quality was in government. His ethos of democracy and tolerance makes him one of Africa’s greatest ever monarchs. Known as “the king of the people” or “the people’s king”, King Tenkamenin who ruled the kingdom around the 9th century is considered as one of the greatest African kings. During his reign, the kingdom flourished and became very wealthy reaching its peak in economic wealth and power.

Tenkamenin’s impact on society today

We recognise and celebrate Tenkamenin because his reign was a peaceful and prosperous reign. Breaking the rules of divinity and higher worship of a ruler, he worked with his messengers. Every day, Tenkamenin made it a point to ride on a horse and speak with the people in the town. He would spend long hours addressing their issues. He sent out his servants to seek the opinion of his people on issues that affected the kingdom before making decisions. He also allowed that the people remained in his presence, (which was not the done thing) when they came to him with their issues and made it a point that they stayed until there was some form of resolution.

Tenkamenin is also well regarded for the way he structured his leadership, He was very particular about taxes and made it a point to collect taxes which would be used to benefit the people of his kingdom. Tenkamenin was very concerned about the social well-being of his people. Although His reign was short, it was impactful and is considered as one of the best-structured monarchies of all time.

Wear his name, tell his story with our statement apparel in our classic t-shirt, vest or tote.