Africa is the continent with the most countries, followed by Asia, which has 48, Europe (44), North America (23), Australia and Oceania (14), and South America (12).

Even though it has the most countries, Africa is not the biggest continent. The entire continent has a size of 30.37 million square kilometers, which makes it the second largest continent, while Asia, with a size of 44.58 million km², is the largest continent by size. After Africa, the third biggest continent is North America (24.5 million square kilometers), then South America (17.8 million square kilometers), Antarctica (14.2 million square kilometers), Europe (9.9 million square kilometers), and then Australia (7.7 million square kilometers).

All Countries in Africa

1. Algeria
2. Angola
3. Benin
4. Botswana
5. Burkina Faso
6. Burundi
7. Cameroon
8. Cape Verde
9. Central African Republic
10. Chad
11. Camoros
12. Democratic Republic of the Congo
13. Republic of the Congo
14. Djibouti
15. Egypt
16. Equatorial Guinea
17. Eritrea
18. Ethiopia
19. Gabon
20. Gambia
21. Ghana
22. Guinea
23. Guinea-Bissau
24. Ivory Coast
25. Kenya
26. Lesotho
27. Liberia
28. Libya
29. Madagascar
30. Malawi
31. Mali
32. Mauritania
33. Mauritius
34. Morocco
35. Mozambique
36. Namibia
37. Niger
38. Nigeria
39. Rwanda
40. Sao Tome and Principe
41. Senegal
42. Seychelles
43. Sierra Leone
44. Somalia
45. South Africa
46. South Sudan
47. Sudan
48. Swaziland
49. Tanzania
50. Togo
51. Tunisia
52. Uganda
53. Zambia
54. Zimbabwe

The continent is divided into five regions: North Africa, West Africa, Central Africa, East Africa, and Southern Africa. Eastern Africa has the most number of countries, 18, followed by West Africa (17), Central Africa (9), North Africa (7), and Southern Africa (5).

South Sudan is the youngest country in Africa

Before 2011, Africa had only 53 countries. However, with the successful breakaway of South Sudan from Sudan on July 9, 2011, making it the youngest country on the continent, the number of countries on the continent officially grew to 54.

At the moment, there are more than 10 active separatist movements in Africa spread across Cameroon, where Ambazonia is seeking to be recognized as a country, Nigeria, which has the Biafra agitation, and Mali with Azawad.

Other territories seeking to be recognized as countries in Africa are Casamance (Senegal), Cabinda (Angola), Somaliland (Somalia), Ogaden (Ethiopia), Tigray (Ethiopia), Barotseland (Zambia), and Rwenzururu (Uganda).

Largest countries in Africa by land area

Algeria is the largest country in Africa, with a population of 2,382,740 square kilometers. Algeria is also the 10^th largest country in the world. It is closely followed by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has a population of 2,344,858 square kilometers.

Other countries that form the 10 largest countries on the continent are Sudan (1,862,484), Libya (1,760,540 km²), Chad (1,284,846 km²), Niger (1,268,642 km²), Angola (1,246,700 km²), Mali (1,240,192 km²), South Africa (1,221,037 km²), and Ethiopia (1,104,300 km²).

The smallest countries on the continent are Cape Verde (4,034 km²), Mauritius (2,240 km²), Comoros (2,236 km²), São Tomé and Príncipe (1,000 km²), and Seychelles (452 km²).

See Also: 15 Richest African Countries: Population, GDP, Minerals, Foreign Reserve

Most Populous Countries in Africa

As of 2025, the country with the largest population in Africa is Nigeria, which boasts close to 240 million people.

Often referred to as the giant of Africa, Nigeria is the 14th largest country on the continent by size. Nonetheless, it still stands not only as the most populous in Africa but also as the most populous black nation in the world.

The African country is the sixth-largest country in the world by population.

Ethiopia, with a population of close to 130 million people, ranks as the second most populous country in Africa. It is followed by Egypt with more than 114 million people, DR Congo, with over 105 million people, and Tanzania, which stands as the fifth most populous nation on the continent with over 66 million people.

Least Populated Countries in Africa

Just in the same way that it is the smallest country on the continent by size, Seychelles is also the smallest African country by population. The East African country has a population of less than 130,000 people according to its most recent records in 2025.

São Tomé and Príncipe is the second least populated country in Africa, with a population of less than 240,000 people. Others are Cape Verde (over 520,000 people), Comoros (850,000 people), Djibouti (1,152,944 people), and Eswatini (1,273,506 people).

According to the World Population Review, Mauritius is the only African country with a declining population as of 2025. It has a current population of 1.3 million people, but it is estimated that by 2050, its population may drop to 1.1 million and 582 thousand by 2100.

The post How Many Countries Are in Africa? appeared first on WeAfrique.

The arrest was confirmed by social media activist, VeryDarkMan, who claimed that yesterday, April 28, about 50 men of the EFCC stormed the residence of E-money, where they picked him.

According to VeryDarkMan, the arrest came after E-Money was captured on camera spraying Pounds on Afrobeat singer, Flavor, during the birthday of serial entrepreneur, Obi Cubana. While spraying pounds is not a crime in the country, it is alleged that while doing so, E-Money stepped on naira notes, an act which the anticorruption body described as an offence; “Naira mutilation.

While calling on the EFCC to free E-Money, he accused the body of being very corrupt and tribalistic. He stated that the action of the body is making him to now start believing that the body has something against the Igbos. His assertion comes after the EFCC turned a blind eye to the same offence allegedly committed by the children of Yoruba billionaire, Okowa.

As Nigerians continue to weigh in on the arrest and the EFCC is yet to release an official statement, here is a look at 5 celebrities who have been arrested for abusing the Naira:

1 Bobrisky (Idris Okuneye)

One of the first Nigerians to be arrested on allegations of Naira mutilation is cross-dresser, Bobrisky, whose real name is Idris Okuneye. He was picked up by the EFCC in April 2024 for spraying the country’s currency notes at a social event. The cross-dresser was sentenced to six months behind bars for the crime.

2. Terry Okpala (Terry Alexander Ejeh)

Another celebrity arrested for the same offence is musician Terry Akpala, who was arrested and arraigned by the anti-corruption body in April 2025. The Nigerian hip hop star was charged with committing “an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 21(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.” His case is currently before the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.

See Also: 12 Richest Black Billionaires, Their Net Worth, and How They Made Their Fortune

3. Cubana Chief Priest (Pascal Okechukwu)

Businessman, socialite, and musician, Cubana Chief Priest, whose real name is Pascal Okechukwu, was also arrested by the EFCC on allegations of abuse of Naira. He was arrested in April 2024 after he was accused of spraying and tampering with the country’s currency at a social event. The case was settled out of court after Cubana Chief Priest agreed to forfeit ten million naira to the Nigerian government.

The post E Money Arrest- 3 Other Nigerian Celebs Arrested Over Abuse of Naira appeared first on WeAfrique.

With the buzz around the person of Turkson, we look at who he is while the world awaits the College of Cardinals to go into conclave and return with a new pope.

Who Is Cardinal Peter Turkson?

Peter Turkson is a Catholic prelate who serves as the Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences and the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences. Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson was born on October 11, 1948, in Wassaw Nsuta, Ghana.

Turkson was born into a family of 10 children in a home that supports religious tolerance. His father was Roman Catholic, his mother was Methodist, and he had a close paternal uncle who was Muslim.

He grew up in a modest home with a father who worked as a carpenter and a mother who made a meagre income selling vegetables in the open market.

Peter had his education in Amisano at St. Teresa’s Minor Seminary, and from there, he moved to St. Peter’s Regional Seminary in Pedu, Cape Coast. He proceeded to the United States, where he attended St. Anthony-on-Hudson Seminary in Rensselaer, New York, for his Master’s degrees in Theology and Divinity.

Priesthood and Rise of Peter Turkson in the Hierarchy of the Catholic Church

Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson was ordained a Catholic priest on 20 July 1975 by John Kodwo Amissah, who was at the time the Archbishop of Cape Coast. Five years after his ordination, Turkson was sent to St. Theresa, and he was sent to St Peter’s Seminary a year later, where he served as vice-rector.

Having proven himself in both his academic pursuits and pastoral assignments, he was appointed Archbishop of Cape Coast by Pope John Paul II on October 6, 1992. He was consecrated on 27 March 1993.

Through the years, he became one of the most influential catholic leaders in Ghana, where he served as the president of the West African nation’s Catholic Bishops’ Conference from 1997 to 2005. He was created a cardinal by Pope John Paul II in what was his last consistory.

His elevation earned him the enviable position of becoming the first Ghanaian cardinal. He took part in the 2005 Conclave, which produced Pope Benedict XVI as leader of the Catholic Church, and again, the 2013 conclave that produced Pope Francis.

Positions he held in the Catholic Church

A multilingual who speaks English, French, Italian, German, and Hebrew, apart from his local Fante Language, Peter Turkson has held many offices in the ranks of the Catholic Church, including the following:

• President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace
• Member of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples
• Member of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments
• Member of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity
• Member of the Pontifical Commission for the Cultural Heritage of the Church
• Member of the Pontifical Committee for International Eucharistic Congresses
• Member of the Congregation for Catholic Education
• Member of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith
• Mediator in the Ivory Coast civil conflict
• Special Envoy to South Sudan for peace efforts
• Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development
• Homilist at the opening ceremony of the World Meeting of Families 2018
• Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences and the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences

Speculation on Papal Candidacy

The first time the name of the Ghanaian Cardinal came up as a potential pope was in 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI resigned as leader of the Catholic Church. The gambling companies, Paddy Power and Ladbrokes, went on to give him good odds of emerging as Pope.

Other African cardinals also mentioned as frontrunners to succeed Pope Benedict included Robert Sarah of Guinea and Fridolin Ambongo of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Heading into the conclave in 2025 to select the successor of St Peter, the apostle of Jesus and Pope Francis, the three men are still being considered, although Turkson is still preferred by many.

See Also: Aubrey Qwana- His parents Were Pastors- Bio, Net worth, 8 Unknown Facts

The Views of Peter Turkson are often Considered Conservative

The former general secretary of the Church’s second Synod for Africa is one among the Cardinals who have remained resolute in the conservative mode of doing things.

This is one of the things that may count against him if the College of Cardinals feels they still want to maintain the position of the late Pope Francis, who is considered to be one of the most progressive popes in the history of the church.

On the issue of homosexuality, the church leader insisted that while there is a need to call for the rights of people, there is also a need to respect the culture of all kinds of people. He stated that there has to be a distinction between moral issues and human rights. He asked the question,” …but when you’re talking about what’s called ‘an alternative lifestyle,’ are those human rights?”

Once accused of religious bias after a video of his surfaced on YouTube where he made a comment on Muslim demographics and how they may soon take over parts of Europe and France, he apologized for his choice of words while maintaining that any attack on Islam would be an attack to him because he had an uncle who was a Muslim and who took care of him as a child.

The post Peter Turkson- Meet The Ghanaian Cardinal Likely To Be The First Black Pope appeared first on WeAfrique.

Admittedly, one of the most beautiful cities in South Africa also doubles as one of the 3 capital cities of the country and that is Cape Town.

In Just the first quarter of 2022, Cape Town witnessed an inflow of over 1 million visitors. This is to tell that the town is one of the most loved and visited places in South Africa.

Although the most amazing tourist sites are too many to mention, we have 10 awesome places to visit when you find yourself in the Rainbow Nation.

1. Cape Town

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What is a visit to South Africa without visiting Cape Town? The town is one of the safest cities in the country and its tourist attraction sites are not just beautiful and serene but also very safe for visitors.

This town is the oldest and most beautiful city in South Africa. It is famous for having white sandy beaches which lie in between the sea and Table Mountain. This city is also known for its architecture, amazing scenery, and astounding vineyards.

In Cape Town, there is an array of lovely places to make your visit complete. For example, there is the False Bay, the Bo Kaap suburb, Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, the Two Oceans Aquarium, and the Lion’s Head.

The town also has what is known as its ‘backbone’ spectacular attraction sites. They are 6 and comprise Robben Island Meseum, Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, Groot Constantia, and the Flying Dutchman Funicular.

However, apart from these, there are many more places. Check out the rest of the list.

2. Kruger National Park, Limpopo/Mpumalanga

Another old location that has a lot of beautiful attractions is the Kruger National Park. Covering about 2 million hectares of land, this park is home to a hundred species of animals and boasts of being one of the most beautiful safaris.

No matter what time of day you visit this park, you can be enthralled by the safari and can even arrange for a personalized trip. The game drives in this National Park are second to no other in South Africa.

3. The Drakensberg

This is also known as the Dragon Mountain and is the highest mountain peak in South Africa. The Drakensberg covers about 200km through the Kingdom of Lesotho and KwaZulu Natal province.

This mountain houses about 800 different species of plants and is widely known for its rock art. On the trails, one can hike, cycle, river raft as well as a parasail.

4. Cradle of Humankind

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This paleoanthropological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where a lot of fossils from millions of years ago were found.

This location is totally child-friendly and easy to navigate as it offers a self-tour guide that starts at the Maropeng Visitors Center.

READ ALSO: Is Cape Town Safe? 5 Safest and 5 Most Dangerous Places In South Africa

5. Knysna, Western Cape

This is a town located on the Knysna Lagoon with beautiful sites to behold. There is a Featherbed Nature Reserve just across the lagoon and an outdoor restaurant.

This location is just perfect for visitors who want a nature-filled place to lounge and take in the beauty of living in nature. There are low-lying mountains, green land, and clear turquoise waters that make the scenery perfect for relaxation.

6. God’s Window, Mpumalanga

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This place located in Mpumalanga has a vantage point over the lowlands in South Africa. It is part of the Panorama Route and when standing and looking across South Africa from here, you would be able to see the Kruger National Park.

God’s window, as the name suggests, gives an amazing view of South Africa. More like a view from where God was and created the area.

7. Boulders Beach, Western Cape

On this beach, you will find about 2,000 African penguins. It has white sands and large boulders in the ocean and even on shore. The boulders were found to serve as shelter for visitors and tourists in case of windy days.

During summertime, it is usually a lot of fun to sunbathe or swim on this beach.

8. Blyde River Canyon, Mpumalanga

This Canyon is one of the biggest on earth and houses a beautiful river that passes through red sandstones while crossing to the Lowveld.

On the Blyde River Canyon, you are guaranteed two awesome experiences. The first can be gotten from the top which offers a beautiful image of the river and the second is an amazing boat ride and you just might be lucky to see a hippo.

SEE ALSO: 20 Top Beaches In South Africa And Why Each Of Them Is Special

9. The V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

For lovers of water and sea watchers, this waterfront offers a beautiful place to sit and have your desires come true. There is a café located at The V&A Waterfront where visitors can watch ships come into the harbor.

One can also scuba dive in the Kelp Forest or walk around the art market located here. If the numerous artworks in the market are not satisfying enough, you can easily take in the amazing view of Table Mountain which is quite visible from here.

10. Garden Route

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This Garden route can be found along the southeast coast of the country. A little short of 200 km, this route passes through what is known as Mossel Bay and the Storms River.

It offers a magnificent view for commuters who may just decide to stop and take in all that this route has to offer.

For one, there is the Garden Route Mall offers great shopping experiences. There are also the Ostrich farms of Oudtshoorn, the Congo Caves, Plettenberg Bay, and the Great Route National Park amongst many others.

The post Cape Town Is The Tourist Capital of South Africa: Here Are Top 10 Places to Visit in South Africa appeared first on WeAfrique.

Born in the year 2006 which makes her 14 years old at the moment and that she was born and raised in Paris, no other personal information can be found about her. The name of her parents, where she lives, the school attends and if she has siblings or not are not made available yet, this could be an attempt to protect her innocence and also keep her away from harm. She is among those nominated for Most Promising Young Actress Cesar of the year 2021 and is also on New York Times list of the 20 best performers in the world.

10 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT HER

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1. She Initially Wanted to be a Journalist

Prior to her audition and acting career, Fathia always wanted to be a journalist and had never received any acting training. However, after her debut in Maïmouna Doucouré’s Mignonnes, Fathia said she wants nothing more than to continue making movies.

2. The ‘Cuties’ is Her First and only Movie so far

Fathia began her career journey in her prime and she has not been featured in so many movies yet. As of the time of writing, she has only 1 movie to her credit. Nonetheless, she has appeared in TV series like Rencontres de cinéma (2021) and La nuit des Césars (2021).

2. Fathia Youssouf was the last person to Audition for Her Debut Movie Role

It was said that at the time auditions were ongoing for Fathia Youssouf’s role in her debut movies, it took the director and its team six months before they found the right person to fit the role of Amy, a Senegalese-French girl with a traditional Muslim upbringing who is caught between traditional Muslim values and Internet culture when she joins a twerking dance crew. She auditioned on the last hour of the last day. Notwithstanding, the auditioning crew immediately knew that they had found the right person for the job.

3. There is much Controversy about Her Debut Movie and the Role She Played

When Cuties was first advertised, it caused a lot of controversy with people airing how irritated and appalled they were to see a supposed 11-year-old showcased in very skimpy clothing and in a very scandalous sexual position

4. Among About 700 Girls Who Auditioned for Her Role, She Was the Only One Fit Enough

Among all the 700 kids who auditioned for the role of Amy, Fathia was the only one considered for the role. It’s almost as if she was born for the role she played and fate took her to the right place and at the right time.

SHE IS FAMOUS ON SOCIAL MEDIA;

She maybe only 14 years old but her name and story has trended a lot on social media especially Instagram, so far she has about 1,100 followers while following 49 accounts herself.

HER MOVIE GINGERED U.S POLITICAL RESPONSE

This Netflix incident also got the U.S Senate concerned to the point where Netflix was invited to discuss the film before Congress. A US Senator Mike Lee went ahead to send a letter to the CEO of Netflix requesting for an explanation. Letters were also sent by other concerned Senators and citizens to the department of justice to enquire whether Netflix and its executives violated any laws as regards to child Pornography.

SHE IS A PRIVATE PERSON

Though the movie ‘Cuties’ has made her stare, Fathia does not seem to share much about her life or better still is not allowed to share personal information about her life probably for the sake of her safety and sanity.

THERE IS A PETITION GOING ON FOR THE CANCELLATION OF HER MOVIE ;

Since the release of her movie in 2020 a lot o people have opened a petition against Netflix to cancel this movie, most people don’t understand the direction to which the movie seeks to go and many are of the opinion that the movie promotes nudity and sexuality of a minor which might promote paedophilia. So far over 3500 signatures have been collected to this effect.

IT WAS ON ACCOUNT OF HER MOVIE THAT THE CLOMOUR ‘BOYCOTTNETFLIX’ STARTED; Operation Boycott Netflix started trending on Twitter after the release of the movie on the 9th of September 2020. Netflix on the other hand has refused to be put in a bad situation for they have made different attempts to convince the public and explain that the movie isn’t what many think it to be, and that the artistry of the cover picture of the movie may have misled many into thinking that. Netflix have since apologised for the adverts and have taken down the photo which have offended so many.

The post Fathia Youssouf – Who Is The Cuties Star? 10 Interesting Facts About Her appeared first on WeAfrique.

It is most likely that you already know the place of Mount Kilimanjaro as the tallest mountain in Africa but there are other high mountains on the continent you probably have not heard about.

What is the Highest mountain in Africa?

1. Mount Kilimanjaro

• Elevation: 5895m (19,341ft)
• Location: Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is famous as the tallest mountain in Africa and the highest single free-standing mountain above sea level in the world. Its highest point is Kibo Peak (5895m | 19,341ft).

The mountain is located in Tanzania in East Africa. This mountain has three volcanic cones namely Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira.

Mount Kilimanjaro has been listed as one of the most visited places in Africa, allowing climbers from different parts of the world. According to statistics, the mountain has an estimation of over 50,000 climbers every year.

While some of these people have been able to climb the top of the mountain, others stop halfway. Climbing is usually allowed by the Tanzanian government.

Mount Kilimanjaro apart from being the highest mountain in Africa, it is also blessed with many resources. It is one of the few locations in Africa where the temperature can go very low and it also snows.

Other resources found are water and different species of plants and animals. It comprises rock (which is composed of silicon dioxide with large quantities of basalt and andesites), lava, and ash.

2. Mount Kenya

• Elevation 5,199 m (17,057 ft)
• Location: Mount Kenya National Park, Kenya

Mount Kenya is the second-highest and the highest in Kenya. It is an extinct volcano and a popular tourist site – with approximately 15,000 climbers yearly.

Despite the many visits and fame of the mountain, it has caused the death of many. For instance, it killed an extended US family on Holiday and two South African pilots in a plane crash.

The mountain is responsible for the death of over 150 people since 1985. The deaths are associated to:

altitude sickness and some even to suicide by jumping off cliffs.

Other problems leading to the death of people on the mountain are freezing weather and wild animals.

Mount Kenya’s peak is now the intersection of Meru, Embu, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, and Tharaka Nithi counties. The highest peaks are The highest peaks of the mountain are Batian (5,199 meters (17,057 feet)), Nelion (5,188 m (17,021 ft)) and Point Lenana (4,985 m (16,355 ft)).

In the surroundings, there are numerous plants and animals, including many endemic plants.

The mountain has also been designated a National Park and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Mount Stanley, Uganda, and DR. Congo

• Elevation 5,109 m (16,762 ft)
• Location: Uganda, and DR. Congo

Mount Stanley is also known as Mount Ngaliema. It is a mountain located in the Rwenzori Mountains National Park in both DR Congo and Uganda. The peak forms the boundary between DR Congo and Uganda.

The Park where the mountain is located is named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The mountain is the third-highest in Africa mountain in Africa. It is a fault block mountain in the African Rift System.

Mount Stanley consists of twin summits and it forms Margherita on a tour to Uganda. Its peaks are Alexandra, Albert, Savoia, Ellen, Elizabeth, Phillip, Moeniu, Great Tooth, and Magheritah which is its highest peak.

4. Mount Speke, Uganda

• Elevation: 4,890 m (16,040 ft)
• Location: Ruwenzori Mountains National Park in Uganda

Mount Speke was named after John Speke – an English explorer who mapped the source of the White Nile in 1862.

The mountain is the second-highest in the Ruwenzori Mountains National Park. It is also joined with Mount Baker and Mount Stanley – forming a triangle encircling the upper Bujuku Valley.

Around the mountain, there are many natural things such as water streams, rivers, and vegetation.

5. Mount Baker, Uganda

• Elevation: 4,844 m (15,892 ft)
• Location: the Rwenzori Mountains National Park in Uganda,

Mount Baker is also known as Kiyanja Mountain or Mountains of the Moon.

This mountain is named after an English explorer Samuel Baker. It has multiple jagged peaks, with the highest called the Edward Peak.

6. Mount Emin, DR. Congo

• Elevation: 15,741 feet (4,798 meters)
• Mountain Range: Rwenzori Mountain Range
• Location: Nord-Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Named after the explorer, Mohammed Emin Pasha, Mount Emin is one of the most renowned mountains in Africa and the 6th tallest on the continent. It is one of the Rwenzori Mountains and a Unesco World Heritage Site.

The mountain has two peaks Umberto (1574ft) and Kraepelin (15720ft). Mount Emin is on the border between Uganda and Congo. However, climbing the mountain has proven to be easier on the Congo side than in Uganda.

7. Mount Gessi, Uganda

• Elevation: 15,469 feet (4,715 meters)
• Mountain Range: Rwenzori Mountain Range
• Location: Uganda

Mount Gessi is found along the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is also found in Rwenzori Mountains National Park.

The mountain is well-known for its volcanic formation at higher levels and also harboring vegetation and animals.

Mount Gesi has twin peaks of Iolanda (15,470 ft) and Bottego (15,418 ft).

Climbing the mountain is accessible through the Rwenzori mountain climbing routes.

8. Mount Meru, Tanzania

• Elevation: 14,980 feet (4,566 meters)
• Mountain Range: Meru Mountain Range
• Location: Tanzania

Mount Meru is located in southeast Arusha Region in Tanzania. The mountain shares a proximity with Kilimanjaro, only 70 kilometers away.

The mountain is a dormant stratovolcano. In 1910, it had a minor eruption.

Mount Meru is one of the mountains with the most obvious changes in Africa. For instance, the mountain lost a lot of its height in thousands of years.

Regardless, the mountain is known for its fertile slopes which host many plants. The surrounding savanna has over 400 species of birds among other animals.

9. Mount Semien, Ethiopia – Ras Dashen peak, 4,550 metersRas Dashen, Ethiopia

• Elevation: 14,872 feet (4,533 meters)
• Mountain Range: Simien Mountain Range
• Location: Ethiopia

The ninth tallest mountain in Africa is Mount Ras Dejen (or Ras Dashen). It is also the highest point in Ethiopia, one of the only two countries in Africa not colonized.

The mountain is found in Simien Mountains National Park – the largest national park in Ethiopia. It is located in the Amhara Region.

The name of the mountain is in Amharic which is used by the system of the Ethiopian Mapping Authority (EMA). It means the general who fights in front of the Emperor.

Also, the mountain contributes to why Ethiopia is known as the Roof of East Africa.

10. Mount Karisimbi, DR. Congo, and Rwanda

• Elevation: 14,786 feet (4,507 meters)
• Mountain Range: Virunga Mountain Range
• Location: Democratic Republic of Congo/Rwanda

Mount Karisimbi is a famous high mountain in Africa. It is a stratovolcano in the Virunga Mountains which is situated on the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The mountain is an inactive volcano. It experiences snow in some seasons.

Mount Karisimbi has other volcanos such as Mikeno Mountain, Nyamulagira, Nyirangongo, Muhabura, and Sabinyo.

Like many other high mountains in Africa, Mount Karisimbi is home to many plants and animals. It is well known for being a habitat of golden monkeys.

The post The 10 Highest Mountains in Africa appeared first on WeAfrique.

Africa, the second-largest continent in the world, is a land of incredible diversity. With 54 countries and over 3,000 tribes, Africa is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions. Each tribe has its distinct way of life, from their unique languages to their traditional clothing and social customs.

These tribes have not only shaped the history and identity of their respective countries but have also contributed to the vibrant tapestry of African culture as a whole. By understanding and appreciating the diversity of these tribes, we can gain a deeper insight into the continent’s rich history and heritage.

So, let’s embark on a journey through Africa and discover some of the most fascinating tribes that call this continent home.

Exploring the Rich Tapestry: 20 African Tribes You Should Know

Africa is a continent known for its diverse range of tribes, each with its own unique cultural heritage. These tribes play a significant role in shaping the social fabric and identity of their respective countries. From traditional clothing to social status and customs, the tribes of Africa are a testament to the rich tapestry of the continent’s heritage.

1. Zulu: The Warriors of South Africa

The Zulu tribe is one of the most well-known tribes in South Africa. With a rich cultural heritage and a history dating back centuries, the Zulu people have played a significant role in shaping the country’s identity.

Known for their warrior traditions and strong oral tradition, the Zulu tribe has preserved their way of life through storytelling, music, and dance. The Zulu language, IsiZulu, is widely spoken by the community, further emphasizing the tribe’s cultural significance in South Africa.

2. Maasai: Nomadic Herders of Kenya and Tanzania

The Maasai tribe is a nomadic pastoralist community that resides in Kenya and Tanzania. Known for their distinctive red clothing and intricate beadwork, the Maasai people have a strong cultural identity that is deeply rooted in their traditions and way of life.

They are a proud and resilient tribe, known for their herding skills and their ability to adapt to the harsh environment of the region. The Maasai tribe is an important part of the cultural landscape of East Africa and continues to preserve their traditions and customs to this day.

3. Yoruba: Culturally Rich Tribe of Nigeria

The Yoruba tribe is one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria and is known for its rich cultural heritage. Located in West Africa, the Yoruba people have a long history that dates back centuries. They have made significant contributions to the arts, music, and literature of Nigeria.

With their vibrant festivals, intricate traditional clothing, and a strong sense of community, the Yoruba tribe continues to celebrate and preserve their unique cultural identity.

4. Oromo: The Largest Ethnic Group in Ethiopia

The Oromo people are the largest ethnic group in Ethiopia, with a population of over 35 million. Located primarily in southern Ethiopia, the Oromo people have a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of identity.

They have their own language, Oromo, which is widely spoken in the region. The Oromo people have made significant contributions to Ethiopian history, culture, and politics. With their rich traditions, vibrant festivals, and deep connection to the land, the Oromo tribe is an integral part of Ethiopia’s diverse cultural landscape.

5. Hausa: Influential Tribe in West Africa

The Hausa tribe is one of the most influential tribes in West Africa. With a population of over 70 million, the Hausa people are spread across several countries, including Nigeria, Niger, Ghana, and Cameroon. Known for their strong oral tradition and storytelling skills, the Hausa people have a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in their history and traditions.

They have their own language, Hausa, which is widely spoken in the region. The Hausa tribe has made significant contributions to the arts, literature, and music of West Africa.

6. Fulani: The Wandering Cattle Herders

The Fulani people, also known as the Fula or Fulbe, are a nomadic pastoralist tribe that spans across several West African countries, including Nigeria, Senegal, Guinea, and Niger. Known for their expertise in cattle herding, the Fulani people have a unique way of life that is centered around their livestock.

They are skilled herders and traders, known for their long-distance migrations in search of pastureland. The Fulani people have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their distinctive traditional clothing and intricate jewelry.

7. Amhara: The Historians of Ethiopia

The Amhara people are an ethnic group in Ethiopia known for their deep connection to Ethiopian history and culture. With a population of over 20 million, the Amhara people have a rich cultural heritage that is deeply intertwined with Ethiopian traditions and customs.

They have played a significant role in Ethiopian history, with many of the country’s rulers and emperors coming from the Amhara ethnic group. The Amhara people have contributed to the arts, literature, and music of Ethiopia, and their cultural heritage is celebrated and preserved to this day.

8. Somali: Nomads of the Horn of Africa

The Somali people are a nomadic tribe that resides in the Horn of Africa, which includes Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Kenya. Known for their nomadic lifestyle, the Somali people have a rich cultural heritage that is deeply tied to their traditions and customs.

They are known for their intricate traditional clothing, vibrant music, and dance, and their strong sense of community. The Somali people have a long history of migration and trade, and they continue to preserve their cultural identity despite the challenges they have faced.

9. Samburu: Cousins of the Maasai in Kenya

The Samburu tribe is closely related to the Maasai people and resides in northern Kenya. Like the Maasai, the Samburu tribe is a pastoralist community that relies on herding livestock for their way of life. They have a strong sense of community and kinship ties, and their social structure is patriarchal.

The Samburu people have a rich cultural heritage, and their traditional clothing and adornments are distinctive and beautiful. They speak the Samburu language, which belongs to the Nilo-Saharan language family, and they have a deep connection to the land and wildlife of their region.

10. Berber: Indigenous People of North Africa

The Berber people, also known as Imazighen, are the indigenous people of North Africa. They reside in several countries, including Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Mauritania. The Berber people have a rich and ancient culture that predates the Arab conquest of North Africa.

They have their own language, Tamazight, and a distinctive cultural heritage that includes traditional clothing, music, and dance. The Berber people have played a significant role in the history and culture of North Africa, and their traditions continue to be celebrated and preserved.

11. Himba: The Red People of Namibia

The Himba people are an indigenous tribe that resides in the remote regions of northern Namibia. Known for their distinctive red clothing and intricate hairstyles, the Himba people have a unique cultural identity that is deeply rooted in their traditions and way of life.

They are a semi-nomadic community that relies on cattle herding and farming for their livelihood. The Himba people have a strong spiritual connection to the land and their ancestors, and their traditional clothing and adornments are a reflection of their cultural heritage.

12. San (Bushmen): The Ancient Tribe of Southern Africa

The San people, also known as the Bushmen, are one of the oldest tribes in Southern Africa. They have a rich and ancient culture that dates back thousands of years, with a deep connection to the land and wildlife of the region.

The San people are hunter-gatherers, known for their exceptional tracking skills and their ability to live in harmony with nature.

They have a unique language, distinctive rock art, and a deep spiritual connection to the land. The San people have faced significant challenges over the years, but they continue to preserve their ancient culture and pass on their traditions to future generations.

13. Ashanti: Goldsmiths of Ghana

The Ashanti tribe, also known as the Asante, is one of the most famous tribes in Africa, particularly in Ghana. They are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship and goldsmithing skills. The Ashanti people have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their intricate and beautifully designed gold jewelry.

One of the key aspects of Ashanti culture is the significance of gold. Gold holds immense value in Ashanti society and is seen as a symbol of wealth, power, and prestige. The Ashanti people believe that gold has spiritual qualities and is associated with the divine.

The Ashanti tribe also has a strong sense of community and tradition. They have a hierarchical social structure led by a king known as the Asantehene. The Ashanti people celebrate their culture through various traditional ceremonies and festivals, such as the Akwasidae and Adae festivals.

Overall, the Ashanti tribe of Ghana is known for their exceptional goldsmithing skills, rich cultural heritage, and strong sense of community.

14. Tuareg: The Blue People of the Sahara

The Tuareg tribe, also known as the “Blue People of the Sahara,” is one of the most fascinating and recognizable tribes in Africa. They are primarily nomadic pastoralists who inhabit the Sahara Desert, spanning across countries like Libya, Niger, and Algeria.

The Tuareg people are known for their distinctive traditional clothing, which includes indigo-dyed robes and turbans. The indigo color gives them the nickname “Blue People.” The indigo dye is believed to have protective qualities against the harsh desert environment, including the scorching sun and sandstorms.

Nomadic culture is an integral part of Tuareg identity. They travel with their herds of livestock, primarily camels, in search of grazing lands and water sources. The Tuareg tribe has a rich oral tradition, with storytelling and poetry playing a significant role in preserving their history and cultural heritage.

The Tuareg people have faced challenges in recent years due to political conflicts and the effects of climate change on their traditional way of life. However, they continue to strive to preserve their unique culture and maintain their strong sense of identity.

15. Igbo: Renowned for Their Vibrant Culture

The Igbo tribe, one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, is renowned for its vibrant culture and rich traditions. The Igbo people are known for their colorful festivals, traditional ceremonies, and lively music and dance.

The Igbo tribe has a deep-rooted cultural heritage that is expressed through their traditional practices, beliefs, and social structures. They have a strong sense of community and place great importance on extended family relationships. The Igbo people also have a rich oral tradition, with storytelling being a significant part of their culture.

Traditional ceremonies and festivals play a vital role in Igbo culture. One of the most well-known Igbo festivals is the New Yam Festival, also known as “Iri Ji.” This festival celebrates the harvest season and is marked by feasting, dancing, and cultural performances.

The Igbo tribe has made significant contributions to Nigerian society in various fields, including literature, music, and business. They have a strong entrepreneurial spirit and are known for their resilience and determination.

16. Tutsi: The Cattle Herders of Rwanda and Burundi

The Tutsi tribe is an ethnic group that predominantly resides in Rwanda and Burundi. They are known for their cattle herding traditions and have a deep connection to their livestock.

Cattle have immense cultural and economic significance for the Tutsi people. They are considered a symbol of wealth and prestige and are often used as a measurement of social status. Cattle provide the Tutsi tribe with milk, meat, and other essential resources necessary for their livelihoods.

The Tutsi people have a hierarchical social structure, with a king or queen ruling over the community. They have a rich oral tradition and pass down their history and values through storytelling and folklore.

The Tutsi tribe has faced significant challenges in the past, particularly during the Rwandan Genocide in 1994. However, they have shown resilience and continue to preserve their cultural heritage and contribute to the development of their countries.

17. Pygmies: The Forest Dwellers of Central Africa

The Pygmies are a group of indigenous people who primarily inhabit the forests of Central Africa, including the Central African Republic, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They are known for their unique lifestyle and deep connection to the forest.

The Pygmies have a hunter-gatherer lifestyle and rely on the forest for their sustenance. They have a deep knowledge of the forest and its resources, using traditional hunting and gathering techniques to provide for their communities.

The Pygmies have a rich oral tradition and pass down their cultural knowledge through storytelling, music, and dance. They have a strong sense of community and place great importance on cooperative living and mutual support.

In recent years, the Pygmies have faced challenges due to deforestation and the encroachment of modern society on their traditional way of life. Efforts are being made to protect their rights and preserve their cultural heritage.

18. Kikuyu: The Majority Tribe of Kenya

The Kikuyu tribe is the largest ethnic group in Kenya, making up a significant percentage of the country’s population. They are known for their rich cultural practices and contributions to Kenyan society.

The Kikuyu people have a strong sense of community and place great importance on family and extended kinship ties. They have a matrilineal system, with descent traced through the female line, and the clan playing a crucial role in Kikuyu society.

Cultural practices such as storytelling, music, and dance are integral to Kikuyu culture. They have a strong oral tradition, with stories and proverbs being used to pass down wisdom and knowledge from one generation to another.

The Kikuyu tribe has made significant contributions to various sectors in Kenya, including politics, education, and business. They have a rich history and have played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s cultural and social fabric.

19. Mursi: Famous for Their Lip Plates in Ethiopia

The Mursi tribe is an indigenous ethnic group that resides in the remote Omo Valley of Southern Ethiopia. They are famous for their unique cultural practice of wearing lip plates, which is a significant aspect of their cultural identity.

For the Mursi people, lip plates are a symbol of beauty and cultural heritage. Girls as young as 15 years old have their bottom lip pierced, and gradually larger and heavier plates are inserted. The size of the lip plate represents the woman’s social status in the community.

The Mursi tribe is also known for their body scarification and intricate body painting. These practices serve as a form of self-expression and cultural identification within the tribe.

The Mursi people have faced challenges due to factors such as encroachment on their land and cultural assimilation. Efforts are being made to preserve their unique cultural practices and protect their rights as an indigenous community.

20. Ndebele: Known for Their Colorful Homes in South Africa

The Ndebele tribe is an ethnic group that primarily resides in South Africa, particularly in the Mpumalanga and Gauteng provinces. They are known for their distinctive and vibrant homes, which are a form of artistic expression and cultural identity.

The Ndebele people are famous for their colorful geometric patterns and intricate designs that adorn the exteriors of their homes. These patterns are created using traditional materials such as clay, cow dung, and natural pigments.

Artistic expression is an integral part of Ndebele culture, with women playing a significant role in creating and maintaining the unique artwork on their homes. The art of house painting has been passed down through generations, and each design holds symbolic meaning.

The Ndebele people also have a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional music, dance, and storytelling. They have made significant contributions to South African art and culture, and their colorful homes have become iconic symbols of their identity.

The post 20 Popular African Tribes You Should Know appeared first on WeAfrique.

Generally, the languages of Africa break down into 3 large families (phyla) known as Niger-Congo, Nilo-Saharan, and Afroasiatic.

How Many Languages Are in Africa?

There are over 3000 languages in Africa, making it one-third of the world’s languages.

These languages fall under different language classifications, with Niger-Congo being the largest.

Among the many languages in Africa, Nigeria is the country with the most languages on the continent. Nigeria, a West African country has over 500 languages with its three major native languages – Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba being among the most popular languages in Africa.

In Africa, there are indigenous languages and foreign languages which have been adopted due to colonialism.

Many of these foreign languages such as English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French are used in some countries as Lingua Franca while in other countries, there is also the use of native languages in formal settings.

For instance, South Africa has 12 formal languages and Zimbabwe has 16 official languages. In both countries, numerous native languages are used as formal languages rather than other foreign languages.

The 5 Main Languages Spoken in Africa and the Countries They Are Found 

1. Swahili (200 Million)

• Native Speakers: 18 million
• Foreign Speakers: 55 million
• Countries Found: Tanzania, Kenya, Comoros, Mayotte, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Southern Somalia, Zambia, Malawi, Madagascar and Oman
• Language Family: Niger-Congo

Swahili, also known as Kiswahili is a popular African language and is the most spoken on the continent. It is found in East Africa with over 200 million speakers in estimation.

Swahili is an official language in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Tanzania has the highest number of Swahili native speakers.

Regardless, the language has speakers in other African countries such as Comoros, Mayotte, Burundi, Somalia, Zambia, Malawi, and Madagascar.

There are also many learners of the language across the world. For instance, Swahili is taught in over 50 universities in the US and several others in Europe and Asia.

2. Arabic (150 Million)

• Speakers: 150 million
• Countries Found: Algeria, Chad, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania (Zanzibar), and Tunisia
• Language Family: Afro-Asiatic

According to some estimations about the most popular languages in Africa, Arabic is the most spoken language in Africa. However, the numbers based on estimation show that there are over 150 million native speakers in 13 countries.

Interestingly, Arabic is mutually unintelligible in some cases. This means that the variations of the language are different making some speakers unable to understand other speakers.

Arabic is mainly found in Northern Africa with Egypt, Algeria, Libya, and Sudan having some of the highest speakers. However, the language is also a minority language in northeastern Nigeria.

Apart from Arabic being a native language and having numerous native speakers in Africa, it is widely used in the entire continent for religious purposes in Islamic settings.

3. Hausa (88 million)

• Native Speakers: 54 million
• Foreign Speakers: 34 million
• Countries Found: Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Benin, Togo, Niger, Chad, Sudan, Ivory Coast, and Burkina Faso
• Language Family: Afroasiatic

Hausa is the most spoken language in Nigeria, the most populated country in Africa. However, it is the third most popular language in Africa, coming after Arabic and Swahili.

Hausa is a Chadic language and the speakers who are known as the Hausa people (Hausawa) migrated from Nubia to Niger. Currently, native speakers of the language are found in Northern Nigeria, Ghana, Togo, Niger, and Chad among other West African languages.

The language has numerous dialects known as Dauranci in Daura, Kananci in Kano, Sakkwatanci in Sokoto, Kurhwayanci, and Gaananci in Ghana; and Togo to mention a few.

4. Amharic (60 Million)

• Native Speakers: 35 million
• Foreign Speakers: 25 million
• Countries Found: Ethiopia, Eritrea
• Language Family: Afroasiatic (Semitic Group)

Amharic is a Semitic language under the Afro-Asiatic language family. It is the second most spoken language in Ethiopia, the second most spoken Semitic language in the world after Arabic, and the 4th most spoken language in Africa.

In Ethiopia, it is the official working language of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

5. Yoruba (47 Million)

• Native Speakers: 45 million
• Foreign Speakers: 2 million
• Countries Found: Nigeria, Togo, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia
• Language Family:  Niger-Congo (Atlantic-Congo)

The Yoruba language is native to Yoruba people who are mainly found in West Africa in southwestern and central Nigeria, Togo, and Benin. It is also found in Côte d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia, mostly due to migration.

The language is the second most popular language and one of the three major languages in Nigeria.

The Yoruba language has different dialects such as Northwest, Northeast, Central, Southwest, and Southeast (in Nigeria); and Lucumí language and Oworo dialects among others.

Yoruba is used for religious purposes (Yoruba religion (Ìṣẹ̀ṣe)- Traditional African religions) and is very popular in the US, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, and St. Vincent & The Grenadines.

Other Languages in Africa Based on Their Popularity 

6. Oromo (45.5 million)

• Speakers: 45.5 million
• Countries Found: Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia
• Language Family: Afroasiatic

Oromo is a popular language found mostly in eastern Africa Kenya and Ethiopia. It is also spoken in some parts of Somalia, Libya, Egypt, and Sudan.

In Africa, it is the fourth most spoken language. Regardless, it is the most popular language found in Ethiopia – where it is spoken the most in the world. In the country, it is used officially alongside Amharic.

The language was once banned in Ethiopia. This was under Haile Selassie’s regime in 1940 (until 1991) when it was stopped from being spoken, used administratively, in schools, and in many other ways.

Oromo has different varieties including:

• Western Oromo (Maca)
• Shewa (Tuulama, Arsi)
• Eastern Oromo (Harar)
• Southern Oromo (Ajuran, Borana, Gabra, Munyo, Orma, Sakuye, Waata)

7. Lingala (Ngala)- 40 Million

• Native Speakers: 20 million
• Foreign Speakers: 20 million 
• Countries Found: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Angola, the Central African Republic, Kenya, and South Sudan.
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

Lingala is a Bantu language that is found in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Angola, the Central African Republic, Kenya, and South Sudan. It has at least 20 million native speakers and about 20 million second-language speakers.

According to Wikipedia, the number of speakers is approximated between 60 to 65 million.

The language has different regiolects and sociolects. The major varieties are northwestern Lingala, Kinshasa Lingala, and Brazzaville Lingala.

8. Fula – 39.7

• Native Speakers: 37 million
• Foreign Speakers: 2.7 million
• Countries Found: Guinea, Cameroon, Nigeria, and Sudan
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Senegambian branch)

Fula which is also known as Fulani, Fulfulde, Pulaar, or Pular is a Senegambian language of the Atlantic-Congo family of the Niger-Congo language family.

It is the 8th most popular language in Africa and an official language in Burkina Faso.

The language is a major language mainly found in West Africa, Central, and North Africa.

Fula has speakers in Fula speakers can be found in Mauritania, Senegal, Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gambia, Chad, Sierra Leone, Benin, Guinea-Bissau, Sudan, Central African Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Liberia and Gabon.

9. Igbo – 32.5 Million

• Native Speakers: 31 million
• Foreign Speakers: 1.5 million
• Countries Found: Nigeria
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Atlantic–Congo)

The Igbo language is an old language, one of the three major languages in Nigeria, and the 7th most popular language in Africa. The language is native to the Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria.

In Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, the language is recognized as a minority language.

Despite being native to only a part of West Africa, Igbo people are considered the most traveled ethnic group in Nigeria and some of the most traveled ethnic groups in Africa. This means that their language can be found spoken beyond the shores of Nigeria or Africa.

10. Malagasy – 25 million

• Native Speakers: 25 million
• Countries Found: Madagascar and the Comoros
• Language Family: Austronesian (Barito language Branch)

Malagasy is one of the two official languages found in Madagascar. There is a minority of speakers of the language in Comoros. The language is spoken by at least 24 million people and it is considered as one fo the most popular languages in Africa.

The language is the westernmost Malayo-Polynesian language and it is closely related to the Ma’anyan language.

Malagacy has twelve dialects between two main dialect groups; Eastern and Western. Some of the dialects include Northern Betsimisaraka Malagasy, Antankarana Malagasy, Southern Betsimisaraka Malagasy, Plateau (Merina) Malagasy, Tsimihety Malagas, and Tandroy-Mahafaly Malaga.

11. Somali – 24 Million

• Native Speakers: 24 million
• Countries Found: Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya
• Language Family: Afro-Asiatic (Cushitic branch)

Somali is the most spoken language in Somalia, with about 89% of the population speakers. It is also the official language of the country as well as one of the 5 official languages in Ethiopia.

Somali is also spoken in Djibouti and Kenya. In total, there are about 24 million speakers of the language, making it the ninth most popular language in Africa.

The language belongs to the Cushite branch in the Afroasiacc language family.

Somali, like many other languages in Africa, has numerous dialects such as Ashraf, Benadiri, Maay, and Northern Somali.

12. Wolof – 23.1 Million

• Native Speakers: 7.1 million
• Foreign Speakers: 16 million
• Countries Found: Senegal, Mauritania, Gambia
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Senegambia Branch)

Wolof is one of the most widely spoken languages in Western Africa and one of the most popular in Africa. It is the most spoken language in Senegal with over 40% of the country’s population speaking it.

The language is also spoken in Gambia and also in Gambia.

Wolof is so popular that the English language borrowed words from the language. Some of the languages include banana and eat (as a root word).

The language has variations. For instance, the Senegalese Wolof is different from the Mauritanian and Gambian Wolof.

13. Xhosa (Xosa or isiXhosa)- 20 Million 

• Native Speakers: 10 million
• Foreign Speakers: 10 million
• Countries Found: South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

Xhosa is an Nguni language and one of the 12 official languages in South Africa. It is also an official language in Zimbabwe. Together with Zulu, Southern Ndebele, and Northern Ndebele, Xhosa is included in the Zunda languages.

The language is so popular that about 18% of South Africa’s population speaks it.

Also, due to its popularity, the language is the official language of Wakanda, a Hollywood film.

14. Afrikaans – 17.5 Million

• Native Speakers: 7.2 million
  
• Foreign Speakers: 10.3 million
• Countries Found: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Indo-European (Germanic branch)

Afrikaans is a language that was developed in the 18th century. It started as a vernacular until it later became a language that is native to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The language is believed to be one of the sexiest languages and accents in South Africa.

15. Berber- 16 Million

• Speakers: 16 Million
• Countries Found: Morocco, Algeria
• Language Family: Afro-Asiatic (Semitic Group)

Berber is an ethnic group which is also known as Amazigh. The language has some similarities with some Semitic languages such as Arabic and Hebrew.

The language is mainly native to North Africa, in countries such as Morrocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt. It is also spoken in some West African countries such as Mali and Niger.

Among the countries where Berber is spoken, Morocco has the most native speakers, claiming between 15 to 20 million speakers.

16. Chewa (Nyanja) 14 million

• Native Speakers: 14 million
• Countries Found: Malawi, Zambia, and Mozambique
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

Chewa is spoken by at least 14 million native speakers and it is also spoken as a second language.

The language is one of the most famous languages found in Africa and the most widely known in Malawi. It is also native to Zambia and Mozambique.

17. Sepedi (Sesotho sa Lebowa; Northern Sotho) – 13.8 Million

• Native Speakers: 4.7 million
• Foreign Speakers: 9.1 million
• Countries Found: South Africa
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

Sepedi is the fifth most-spoken language in South Africa and one of the most popular in Africa. The Bantu language shares similarities with Setswana.

Sepedi has numerous dialects such as Bapedi, Phokwane, Bakone, Chuene, and Batlokwa.

18. Sesotho (Southern Sotho)- 13.5 Million

• Native Speakers: 5.6 million
• Foreign Speakers: 7.9 million
• Countries Found: Lesotho, South Africa, Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Southern Bantu)

Sesotho is a Bantu language which is also one of the twelve official languages in South Africa, one of the two official languages of Lesotho, and one of the sixteen official languages of Zimbabwe.

The language is closely related to other Bantu languages such as Venda, Tsonga, Tonga, and Lozi.

19. Kirundi (Rundi)- 13 million

• Native Speakers: 13 million
• Countries Found: Rwanda, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and Kenya
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

Kirundi is one of the official languages in Burundi. It is also a widely spoken language in other parts of Africa.

The language is mutually intelligible with Kinyarwanda, another popular language in Africa.

20. Shona – 12 Million

• Native Speakers: 6.5 million
• Foreign Speakers: 5.50 million
• Countries Found: Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

21. Akan – 11,000,000

• Native Speakers: 8.9
• Foreign Speakers: 2: 1 
• Countries Found: Ghana
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Kwa branch)

Akan is one of Africa’s most popular languages. It is also the popular native language in Ghana where about 44% of the population are native speakers but about 80% of the country’s population can speak the language.

Akan language which is the .. most popular language in Africa has different dialects such as Bono (Twi), Asante, Akuapem, Bono (collectively known as Twi), and Fante.

22. Zulu – 10,400,000

• Native Speakers: 13 million
• Foreign Speakers: 16 million
• Countries Found: South Africa, Lesotho
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

Zulu which is also known as isiZulu is an African language and one the 12 official languages in South Africa. The language is the.. most popular language in Africa, the second most spoken Bantu language after Swahili, and the most spoken native language in South Africa.

The language is closely related to the Northern Ndebele in Zimbabwe.

Zulu is one of the most popular ethnic groups in Africa. This is mainly because of Shaka Zulu, one of Africa’s most historic warriors.

The language has four dialects known as central KwaZulu-Natal Zulu, northern Transvaal Zulu, eastern coastal Qwabe, and western coastal Cele.

23. Kinyarwanda – 9,800,000

• Native Speakers: 24 million
• Countries Found: Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya
• Language Family: Afro-Asiatic (Cushitic branch)

Kinyarwanda is one of the main languages spoken in Rwanda alongside English and French. It is spoken by about 93% of the total population of Rwanda.

Also, the language is spoken in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Kinyarwanda which is also known as Ikinyarwanda is a Bantu language. This means that it falls under the same language family as other African languages such as Zulu, Xhosa, Shona, and Kirundi,

There are different dialects of Kinyarwanda known as Bufumbwa, Ikinyabwishya, Igikiga, Ikinyamurenge, Ikirera, Urufumbira, and Urutwatwa.

Other Popular Languages in Africa

24. Tswana (Setswana; Sechuana)- 12.9 Million

• Native Speakers: 12.9 Million
• Countries Found: Botswana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

25. Kongo – 11.5 Million

• Native Speakers:  6.5 million
  
• Foreign Speakers: 5 million
• Countries Found: Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of the Congo, Gabon and Angola
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

26. Luganda (Ganda) – 11 Million

• Native Speakers: 5.6 million
• Foreign Speakers: 5.4 million
• Countries Found: Uganda
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

27. Tigrinya (Tigrigna)- 9.7 million

• Native Speakers: 9.7 million
• Countries Found: Eritrea, Ethiopia
• Language Family: Afro-Asiatic (Semitic)

28. Gikuyu (Kikuyu) – 8.1 Million

• Native Speakers: 8.1 Million
• Countries Found: Kenya
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

29. Tsonga (Xitsonga)- 7.1 Million

• Native Speakers: 3.7 million
• Foreign Speakers: 3.4 million
• Countries Found: Eswatini, Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

30. Umbundu (South Mbundu)- 7 Million

• Native Speakers: 7,000,000
• Countries Found: Angola
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

31. Luhya – 6,800,000

• Native Speakers: 3.3 million
• Countries Found: Kenya
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

32. Kalenjin (Elgeyo language)- 6.6 Million

• Native Speakers: 6,600,000
• Countries Found: Kenya and Uganda
• Language Family: Nilo-Saharan (Nilotic)

33. Mossi (Mooré or More )- 6.5 million

• Native Speakers: 6.5 million
• Countries Found: Burkina Faso, Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Benin, Niger, Mali, Togo and Senegal
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language)

34. Tshiluba (Luba-Kasai, Cilubà or Tshilubà, Luba-Lulua)- 6,300,000

• Native Speakers: 6.4 Million
• Countries Found:  Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu Language

35. Kituba – 5,400,000

• Native Speakers: 5.4 million
• Countries Found: the Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
• Language Family: Kongo-based Creole

36. Luo – 5,000,000

• Native Speakers: 5 million
• Countries Found: Kenya and Tanzania
• Language Family: Nilo-Saharan ( Nilotic language)

37. Swazi (siSwati)- 4.7 Million

• Native Speakers: 2.3 million
• Foreign Speakers: 2.4 million
• Countries Found: Eswatini, South Africa, Lesotho, Mozambique
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

38. Tshivenda (Venḓa) – 3 Million

• Native Speakers: 1.3 million
• Foreign Speakers: 1.7 million
• Countries Found: South Africa Zimbabwe, and Mozambique
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

39. Sena – 2.8 Million

• Native Speakers: 2.8 million
• Countries Found:  Mozambique, Malawi
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

40. Northern Ndebele (isiNdebele saseNyakatho, Zimbabwean Ndebele or North Ndebele) – 2,600,000

• Native Speakers: 2.6 million
• Countries Found: Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

41. Afar ( ’Afar Af, Afaraf, Qafar af) – 2,500,000

• Native Speakers: 2.6 million
• Countries Found: Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya
• Language Family: Afro-Asiatic (Cushitic branch)

42. Ndau (chiNdau, Chindau, Ndzawu, Njao, Southeast Shona, Chidanda)- 2,400,000

• Native Speakers: 2.4 million
• Countries Found:  Mozambique, Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

43. Fon – 2,300,000

• Native Speakers: 2.3 million
• Countries Found: Benin, Nigeria, Togo, Ghana, Gabon
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

44. Kimbundu (Mbundu)- 1,700,000

• Native Speakers: 1.7 million
• Countries Found: Angola
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

45. Tonga (Zambezi)- 1,500,000

• Native Speakers: 1.5 million
• Countries Found: Zambia, Zimbabwe
• Language Family: Niger-Congo (Bantu)

The post 45 Most Popular Languages in Africa appeared first on WeAfrique.

These 30 Beautiful African Birds are a Sight to Behold 

1. African Barbet

• Scientific Name: Lybiidae
• Length: 7.9 to 9.8 inches
• Weight: 0.3 to 7.2 ounces
• Range: Sub-saharan Africa

It is not only the vibrant colors of the African Barbet that make it the first on this list but the intricate patterns on its feathers, its big head, short, thick bill, and plump body.

There are several species but the most common is the created barbet which is nicknamed fruit salad. It features a prominent yellow crest on its head and a vibrant green plumage with a yellow breast.

They are known for their loud, drumming calls and their playful behavior. Surprisingly they hardly move in groups.

The barbet is an omnivore bird and mostly feeds on fruits and insects. They are mostly found in woodlands or scrub savannas in Zambia, Angola, and other Southern African countries.

2. Secretarybird

• Scientific Name: Balearica regulorum
• Length: 3.3 feet
• Weight: 7.7 pounds

This is one of the most unique African birds and its name originates from the black plume of feathers at the back of its head which resembles the quill pens used by secretaries in the 19th century. They are mostly more than 4 feet tall and they hunt mostly on the ground and feed primarily on small rodents, amphibians, and reptiles using their sharp claws and powerful legs to stomp and kill their prey before swallowing it whole.

The secretary birds are mostly found in the open grasslands and savannas of the sub-Saharan region. They spread across Senegal to Somalia and down to South Africa.

3. Grey Crowned Crane

• Scientific Name: Balearica regulorum
• Length: 3.3 feet
• Weight: 7.7 pounds

The Grey Crowned Crane is stunningly one of Africa’s most beautiful and colorful birds. This bird stands tall with grey plumage, white wings, a golden crown of feathers, and a bright red throat pouch. In measurement, they grow up to 1m (3.3ft) and weigh 3.5 kg (7.7 lbs) with a wingspan of 2 m (6.5 ft).

They are mostly found in the Eastern and Southern parts of Africa in areas like the grasslands, flooded plains, marshes, and agricultural land. The grey-crowned cranes are known for their elaborate courtship dances which involve synchronizing bowing, jumping, and wing display.

4. African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus)

• Scientific Name: Psittacus erithacus
• Length: 33 cm
• Weight: 0.4 kg

This bird is renowned for its exceptional intelligence and ability to talk and mimic human speech and sounds. The African Grey Parrot are native to rainforests of West and Central Africa and you will most likely find them in coastal countries such as Sierra Leone, Ghana, and the Ivory Coast foraging for nuts and fruits on treetops. These birds can easily captivate anyone with their sleek grey plumage and very distinctive bright red tail feathers.

They are highly social birds who play a significant role in their communities, forming strong bonds and engaging in complex communication. No wonder they have been nicknamed “The Einsteins of the Bird World.”

5. Hadada Ibis 

• Scientific Name: Bostrychia hagedash
• Height: 30 inches
• Weight: 1.2 kg

This Africa beautiful bird is easily recognizable by its long, down-curved bill and the crest of loose feathers adorning its head. Hadada Ibises are found in wetlands and grasslands, where they wade through shallow water searching for crustaceans, insects, and small fish.

Their loud, drawn-out call, resembling “ha-da-da,” has earned them their unique name. They are also known for

6. African Fish Eagle 

• Scientific Name: Haliaeetus vocifer
• Length: 63 to 77 cm
• Weight: 2.1 to 3.6 kg

You can call the African fish eagle a dominant predator in African skies and that’s no lie. Its brown plumage is accentuated by white patches on its chest and wings, and its powerful yellow beak is perfectly adapted for tearing apart fish. They are found near water bodies in sub-Saharan Africa.

In addition to its colorful looks, the African Fish Eagle is also known for its piercing cry which is a familiar sound across African landscapes. These birds are hunters and primarily feed on fishes.

7. African Penguin

• Scientific Name: Spheniscus demersus
• Length: 24 to 28 inches
• Weight: 4.9 to 7.7 pounds
• Range: Southern Africa

Like other penguins around the world, the African Penguin cannot fly. However, this doesnt stop this bird from being one of Africa’s delights. Penguins exist in different species across the world. But in Africa, they are mostly found along the coastline of southern Africa and Namibia.

Penguins are naturally social birds and their friendly nature makes them an attraction for a lot of tourists. Their distinctive b;  black and white plumage also makes them attractive to birdwatchers. Since they live on land and water, they eat fish and insects.

8. Saddle-billed Stork 

• Scientific Name: Ephippiorhyncus senegalensis
• Length: 4 ft 8 inches
• Weight: 11 to 16.6 pounds

With its long, slender legs and a massive, saddle-shaped bill, the Saddle-billed Stork is a majestic inhabitant of African wetlands. Its plumage is a stunning combination of black, white, and grey, with a bare red patch around the eye

These patient predators stand motionless for long periods, awaiting the opportune moment to strike unsuspecting prey like fish, frogs, and small reptiles.

Read Also: African Animals With Horns

9. Lilac-breasted Roller 

• Scientific Name: Coracias caudatus
• Height: 14.5 inches
• Weight: 110g

Across the south and east of Africa is where you’ll find the lilac-breasted roller. Its vibrant lilac breast contrasts beautifully with its turquoise back, and its underparts are adorned with a mosaic of black, white, and brown hence its name.

The Lilac-breasted Roller is a skilled acrobat who has been captured performing aerial somersaults while capturing insects in mid-air.

10. Purple-crested Turaco

• Scientific Name: Tauraco porphyreolophus
• Length: 18-19 inches
• Weight: 8-12 ounces

Another magnificent turaco species, the Purple-crested Turaco are peculiar birds that have long tails, chunky bodies, small heads, and mohawk-like crest features. These birds are the national birds of Swaziland and are native to South and East Africa. They have vibrant green plumage, a striking purple crest on its head, and a bright red beak.

The purple-crested turaco is a shy bird that is often heard before they are seen, thanks to their loud calls echoing through the dense rainforest canopy.

11. African Spoonbill

• Scientific Name: Platalea alba
• Length: 90 cm (35 inches)
• Weight: about 3 pounds)

This bird is mostly found in long marshes, lakes, and rivers across Africa. Their features such as their white plumage, black long spoon-shaped bill, bright red facial skin, and long legs make them a favorite for birdwatchers.

This wading bird primarily feeds on small fish and crustaceans. They skillfully sweep the water surface for food using their bill to sift through mud and water.

12. Malachite Kingfisher 

• Scientific Name: Corythornis cristatus
• Length: 5.11 inches
• Weight: 12-19 g

The Malachite Kingfishers are mostly found in forests and woodlands. You’ll find these tiny jewel-toned birds near rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water throughout sub-Saharan Africa.

These birds often perch on branches and sometimes dive into water to catch insects and small fish. It is not just its agile movement that makes it a delight to watch but its iridescent colors as well. From its electric blue back to its black and blue crest, and rufous and white underparts, this bird is undoubtedly one beautiful bird you’ll find in Africa.

13. African Pied Kingfisher 

• Scientific Name: Ceryle Rudis
• Length: 9.8 inches
• Weight: 1.5 to 2 ounces
• Range: Africa, Asia

This is another kingfisher species that is a common sight along rivers, lakes, and streams across Africa. Its striking appearance features a white chest and belly, contrasted by a black head, back, and wings.

The African Pied Kingfisher is a skilled hunter, hovering mid-air before diving headfirst into the water to catch fish.

14. Oxpecker

• Scientific Name: Buphagus
• Length: 7.9 inches
• Weight: 2 ounces

This is another unique bird that is found in Africa with the yellow-billed and the red-billed oxpeckers endemic to Africa and are both distinguished by their bill colors. These birds share a mutual relationship with mammals like rhinos and buffalos typically feeding on insects that live on the host. However, their relationship gets parasitic when they begin to pick off the flesh of the animal.

The oxpeckers have greyish plumage, red eyes, short legs, and a strong, stiff tail and can be found in Savannas in countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Somalia

15. European Bee-eaters

• Scientific Name: Merops block
• Length: 8 to 9 inches
• Weight: 23g

These birds are a feast for the eyes and boast beautiful shades of red, orange, and green with sky-blue underparts. Despite being called the European bee-eaters, the breed of these birds is found across Africa, Asia, and Europe.

Oftentimes, these birds are found in savannahs, grasslands, woodlands, shrublands, and cultivations. By nature, they are acrobatic and display hunting skills. Talking of hunting, these birds, feed mostly on bees and other flying insects.

16. Go Away Bird

• Scientific Name: Corythaixoides concolor
• Length: 47–51 cm
• Weight: 200-300g

If you’ve ever heard any bird say “Kuh-we” then you may have likely crossed paths with the Go Away bird. They are known for their loud, repetitive call alarm call which sounds like they are saying “Go Away”. There are 3 species of this African bird namely the grey go-away bird, the bare-faced go-away bird, and the white-bellied go-away bird.

They are often found in southern and eastern Africa. Also, they eat fruits and insects and enjoy perching on tall or dead trees. What makes them even more interesting is their communication prowess. The go-away birds sometimes involve in duets and mimicry which makes their vocalization something to marvel about.

17. Flamingo

• Scientific Name: Phoenicopteridae
• Length: 4 to 5 feet
• Weight: 4 to 8 pounds
• Range: Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia

Even though it is the Greater Flamingo that is widely recognized, Africa is also home to the Lesser Flamingo which is a slightly smaller species. There are 4 species of flamingos around the world but there are only 2 of them in Africa while others can be found in the islands of Asia, America, and Europe. These birds have vibrant pink plumage and black wingtips. Aside from their beautiful color, the flamingoes usually stand with one leg while the other remains tucked in their bodies.

These social birds primarily feed on shellfish which most has been attributed to their pink coloured plumage. They also eat small insects and algae.

18. The Cape Sugar Bird

• Scientific Name: Promerops cafer
• Length: 23 to 44 cm (9.1–17.3 in)
• Weight: 26 and 46 g

The cape sugarbird is undoubtedly another true visual spectacle. These birds are native and endemic to South Africa particularly areas with an abundance of flowers. The cape suarbird feeds primarily on nectar, using its long, curved beak to reach deep inside flowers.

Both males and females display impressive aerial acrobatics while hovering in mid-air. However, the male cape sugarbirds are more dominating as they are fiercely territorial, and would even engage in aerial battles to defend their feeding areas while attracting mates with their melodious songs.

19. The Ostrich

• Scientific Name: Struthio camelus
• Length: 2.5 m (8 ft.)
• Weight: 145 kg (320 lb.)
• Range: central and southern Africa.

No other bird comes close to the Ostrich when it comes to height and weight. For this reason, it is the largest living bird on Earth. Interestingly, its size does not make it a lazy bird thanks to its powerful legs which propels it across vast savannas at speeds exceeding 70 kilometers per hour, earning another title as the “fastest bird on land.”

The ostrich has a distinctive black and white plumage, with males sporting a flamboyant red neck and thighs during breeding season. Since they are social birds, they live in flocks of up to 20 individuals. Aside from their large bodies, they possess keen eyes and ears that make them vigilant sentinels. The dominant males keep watch for predators for the entire flock and alert them with a loud warning call which can be mistaken for a lion’s roar.

Interestingly, ostriches can eat anything even things that other animals cannot digest as they can grind food with their muscular stomach. While their diet consists of roots, leaves, and seeds, these birds can also consume insects, snakes, lizards, and rodents.

20. Rosy-Faced Lovebirds

• Scientific Name: Agapornis
• Length: 5 to 7 inches
• Weight: 1.5 to 2 ounces

These charming birds are not just colorful but also social and affectionate and are known for their strong pair bonds. The lovebirds are often seen perched together, preening and feeding each other to show their companionship. It is no surprise that these birds are mostly the popular choice for pet owners.

Over nine species of this bird across southwest Africa can be seen in savannahs, woodlands, croplands, and human habitations. They come in various colors, including green, yellow, and blue, and often have pink spotting around the eye region.

21. Superb Starling

• Scientific Name: Lamprotornis superbus
• Length: 7.1 to 7.5 inches
• Weight: 2.5 to 3 ounces

These birds are mostly found in habitats like savannas, woodlands, and gardens, and just like their name, they are stunning and colorful birds. Their iridescent plumage shimmers in shades of blue, green, and purple, while their chest glows a vibrant orange.

It is a native of East Africa and they are often seen in large flocks which makes them a complete attraction. As per feeding, they eat small animals like worms, termites, and beetles

22. Sunbird

• Scientific Name: Nectariniidae
• Length: 4 inches
• Weight: 5 to 45g
• Range: Africa, Asia, Australia

The African sunbird species are often called hummingbirds of Africa. Aside from the colors and beauty they add to African gardens and forests, these birds are pollinators of many African plant species as they also use their curved beaks to feed on nectar just like the hummingbirds.

Several species across Africa appear in different colors. The Variable Sunbird, for example, dazzles with its iridescent green feathers and a bright red gorget on its throat, while the Bronzy Sunbird has a combination of metallic bronze and green feathers. Also, the male variable sunbird often shows off its beautiful plumage to impress the females.

23. African Hoopoe

• Scientific Name: Upupa africana
• Length: 25 to 29 cm
• Weight: 38 to 67 g

These unique birds are one of the species to see on a safari for bird lovers and are easily recognizable because of their distinctive crests and long, curved bills. You’ll find them in open parklands and snobs across Africa. The most common species of this bird is the Eurasian Hoopoe which is orange and has a white-striped body and black and white crest.

The African Hoopoe feeds on insects like beetles, locusts, and grasshoppers. They grub by probing the ground with their bills. Some of their predators include cats, hawks, and eagles.

24. White-backed Vulture

• Scientific Name: Ornithurae
• Length: 30 inches
• Weight: 15 to 33 pounds
• Range: Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas

Vultures play a critical role as nature’s clean-up crew and this bird lives up to its role as the “garbage man” of the savannah. The White-backed Vulture is smaller in size and has a dark eye compared to the Cape vultures which it is often confused with. You will find these birds in open plains and wooded country across West Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, and throughout Southern Africa.

Their names match their description. They have white head and body and dark brown wings. These birds help prevent the spread of disease by scavenging on carcasses.

25. Pelican

• Scientific Name: Pelecanus
• Length: 5.2 to 5.9 feet
• Weight: 22 to 26 pounds
• Range: Worldwide

This species of birds are mostly found in Southern and Sub-saharan Africa and they exist in 8 species around the world except Antarctica. They are mostly known as water birds and the species living in Africa are the great white and the pink-backed pelicans.

Pelicans are known for their large throat pouch and for most people, they have something in there. But the throat pouch only helps to filter food. Another feature of the pelicans is that they have long necks and short legs.

26. Shoebill 

• Scientific Name: Balaeniceps rex
• Length: 43 to 55 inches
• Weight: 8.8 to 15.4 pounds
• Range: East Africa

This is another beautiful African bird that has a bill that resembles a shoe hence its name “Shoebill”. However, it is also known as the billed stork or the whale-headed. This prehistory bird also resembles the dinosaurs of old. They have long legs and the adults appear grey while the juveniles are brown. These birds can be found in freshwater swamps in Central and East Africa.

Primarily, the Shoebill feeds on snakes, frogs,  fish, and other aquatic creatures using their big bill to catch their prey. They are also known for their slow and deliberate movement that’s possibly why they enjoy marshy areas where they can stay unmoving for hours.

27. Marabou Stork

• Scientific Name: Leptoptilos crumenifer
• Length: 4.99 feet
• Weight: 20 pounds
• Range: Sub-saharan Africa

The Marabou Stork belongs to the stork family known as the Ciciniidae and it is mostly found in Tanzania, Ethiopia, Uganda, and Kenya. This bird is similar to the vulture not just in appearance but other traits and has been nicknamed the undertaker bird. The Marabou stock is large and has a bald hair and neck with white underparts. They are skilled hunters and scavengers that mostly feed on small animals and carrion

28. Hamerkop

• Scientific Name: Scopus umbretta
• Length: 22 inches
• Weight: 17 ounces
• Range: Africa, Arabia

The hamerkop is a fascinating bird that has a hammer-shaped crest on its head which explains its name. It is also closely related to the pelicans and shoebill and is the only species in the genus Scopus and the Scopidae family.

Most hamerkops are brown and have barred tails, black legs, big wings, and partially webbed feet. They feed on fish and other small animals using their bill to catch their prey. Also, they are known for their nest-building skills as most of their nest are perched high on trees and are often dome-shaped.

29. Cattle Egret 

• Scientific Name: Bubulcus ibis
• Length: 18 to 22 inches
• Weight: 9.5 to 18 ounces
• Range: Worldwide

This bird is one of the common beautiful birds in Africa and in recent times, they have spread throughout the world. These birds are mostly found around herd cattle as they have a symbiotic relationship with cattle hence their name. During nonbreding season, they appear white but while breeding, they develop orange buff plumes on the crown, back, and breast areas. It is also around this period that their bill becomes red.

These birds are often found in the lake and marshy areas. They do not make many sounds except for the throaty “rick rack” sound that is hardly heard by a lot of people.

30. Hornbill 

• Scientific Name: Bucerotidae
• Length: 1 ft 1 to 5 ft 11 inches
• Weight: 3.50 ounces to 14 pounds
• Range: Africa, Asia

The Hornbill is another species of beautiful bird found in Eastern and Southern Africa, especially in subtropical areas. You will hardly miss a hornbill as they are known for their brightly colored plumage and the unique casques on their bill which makes it heavy. As such, they use their first and second neck vertebrae to carry it.

Different species of hornbills differ in size and color. It is only their bill they share in common. Among other things, Hornbills are known for their distinctive call which can be heard echoing throughout the forest and savannah areas.

Like the shoebill, these birds also use their bill to catch prey, fight, and construct nests.

The post 30 Beautiful African Birds appeared first on WeAfrique.

From the springbok to the impala and the gemsbok, these animals live in a world of their own, and above the fancy of their horns, they also serve the purpose of defense, dominance, and display.

15 African Creatures with Unique Horns 

1. Giraffe

The giraffe is the tallest land animal in the world and they can be found in several African geographic regions. It is also one of the most famous African animals with horns. They are often called distinctive ossicones – bony horns fused with the skull. However, they are not true horns, but their sheer size which is up to 4 feet is remarkable.

The males use their horns in “necking” battles and winging their heads to establish dominance while the females do.

2. Gemsbok (Oryx gazella)

The gemsbok antelope is mostly found in the desert area of Southern Africa and stands out for its long, straight horns which are mostly elegantly curved inwards. These horns usually grow to about 85 centimeters and the males tend to have thicker horns while the females have longer and thinner horns.

Mostly their horns are weapons used for both defense and sparring. However, the males engage in ritualized fights for breeding rights.

3. Greater Kudu 

The greater kudu is not just one of the tallest antelopes in the world but one with the most magnificent horns in Africa. They stand up to 1.2 meters at the shoulder and can weigh up to 315 kg. Their horns are often large, spiraling in structures, and have ridges and grooves with each twist unique from the other.

Males use them for display, attracting females and intimidating rivals. In addition to this, their horns can be crafted into musical instruments and can be sometimes used as a shofar in Jewish ceremonies.

4. Springbok

The springbok which is also known as the springbuck is another animal with horns.  Aside from their agile and playful nature, they are also one of the most enchanting antelopes. They have a white face with dark stripes that extends from its mouth to the eyes. This is complemented by a reddish-brown coat that transitions to white as it reaches the lower third of its body and ends with a white rear.

They have lyre-shaped black horns that arch backward and stand at about 14 to 20 inches. Males use them in spectacular leaping displays, showcasing their fitness to potential mates. Their horns have also inspired African art decoration.

5. Rhinos

This list will be incomplete without the iconic rhinos which are one of the most well-known animals with horns in Africa. They have become endangered species due to poaching for their prized horns. The black and white rhinoceros possess thick,  imposing horns made of keratin. They often differ in size and shape.

The horns of the black rhino are rounded at the base and sometimes evenly sized which differs from the squarish shape of the white rhino with one large horn and small horn. Rhinos use their horns for self-defense, digging, and clearing vegetation.

6. Grant’s Gazelle

The Grant’s gazelle is another animal that stands out for its horn and height. There are several species of gazelle including the speak gazelle, Thomson’s gazelle, and the dama gazelle. They all possess slender, ringed horns however, the females tend to possess shorter horns than their male counterparts that are usually equipped with longer horns.

The horns are used mostly for defense, grazing, and sparring. Also, the females choose mates based on horn size and curvature.

7. Bongo Antelope

The Bongo antelope possesses spiraling, mahogany-colored horns that often command attention. The two species that exist are the lowland western bongo and the mountain eastern bongo which are considered the larger members of the antelope family.

They are shy by nature and often use their horns for display and defense. It is not only their horns and stripes that make them unique but their hearing abilities and speed of around 60 km/h when pursued by predators. The male bongo often dwells alone while the female dwells in herds.

In many African cultures, the bongo has been linked to inducing seizures in people. As such, they are often avoided by people.

Read Also: 10 Deadliest Snakes In Africa

8. Impala

This is another common African antelope which is known for their swiftness and elongated necks supported by specially adapted spines and delicate horns only found on males.

These elegant creatures are incredibly adept at balancing on their hind legs to reach even higher foliage, earning them the nickname “giraffe of the gazelle world.”

9. Eland 

The Eland is called Africa’s biggest antelope and despite its big size, it is mostly called the peaceful and slowest member of the antelope family. In fact, their calm demeanor and grazing habits have earned them the nickname “the cow antelope.”

Both males and females possess short, straight horns which are used for display and occasional sparring. Interestingly, their close relationship with humans for centuries has resulted in several domesticated breeds used for milk and meat.

10. Hartebeest

From a distance, the hartebeest looks like a misshapen antelope. They possess V-shaped horns and are iconic grazers of the savanna. Both sexes possess these horns, used in dominant displays and defense.

These hardy creatures are famous for their incredible migrations, traveling vast distances in search of fresh grazing grounds, and forming massive herds that thunder across the plains.

11. Gerenuk

With its giraffe-like neck and long, slender horns, the gerenuk presents a fascinating paradox. Reaching high foliage with its neck, it uses its horns for sparring and display, highlighting the diverse ecological niches horns can occupy.

With necks stretching impossibly long, gerenuk resembles living question marks grazing on acacia leaves. Their elongated necks, supported by specially adapted spines, are adorned with delicate horns only found on males. These elegant creatures are incredibly adept at balancing on their hind legs to reach even higher foliage, earning them the nickname “giraffe of the gazelle world.”

12. Waterbuck

Found near water sources, the waterbuck has large, lyre-shaped horns with distinctive rings. Males lock horns in epic battles for dominance, creating a spectacle of strength and determination.

Thriving in marshy savannas and riverine habitats, waterbucks are powerful antelope distinguished by their impressive ringed horns. Both sexes sport these curved horns, used for defense and dominance battles. Interestingly, waterbucks possess the remarkable ability to close their nostrils underwater, allowing them to graze submerged plants while keeping an eye out for predators

13. Sable Antelope

The regal sable antelope boasts impressive, forward-curving horns that can grow up to 4 feet long. These weapons are used for defense, sparring, and clearing dense vegetation, symbolizing the animal’s power and resilience.

Living a semi-aquatic life in papyrus swamps and dense vegetation, the sitatunga embodies adaptation. Their webbed hooves aid in navigating muddy terrain, while their long, slender legs allow them to walk through water. Males boast lyre-shaped horns, used for territorial disputes and attracting females. Their cryptic coloration and aquatic prowess make them masters of camouflage, hidden in plain sight within the reeds.

14. Sitatunga

Living in dense swamps and marshes, the sitatunga is a shy, semi-aquatic antelope. Its short, heavily ridged horns help it navigate through thick vegetation and are used for intraspecific competition.

Living a semi-aquatic life in papyrus swamps and dense vegetation, the sitatunga embodies adaptation. Their webbed hooves aid in navigating muddy terrain, while their long, slender legs allow them to walk through water. Males boast lyre-shaped horns, used for territorial disputes and attracting females. Their cryptic coloration and aquatic prowess make them masters of camouflage, hidden in plain sight within the reeds.

15. Scimitar-Horned Oryx

Due to excessive hunting in the wild for their horns, these animals which are also called the Sahara oryx have faced extinction since 2000. They have long, straight, slender horns that are curved backward and resemble curved scimitars. These horns are used for digging, cooling, and defense.

The scimitar-horned oryx is often found in arid environments like deserts and because of their adaptive natures, they can survive with water consumption. Unlike other animals, they do not have traditional structures and will often maintain groups of at least 70 members.

The post African Animals With Horns appeared first on WeAfrique.