Heraldry in Sub-Saharan Africa

Heraldry in Sub-Saharan Africa includes the study and creation of coats of arms, badges, and achievements for individuals, countries, and tribes in Black Africa. Three main types of arms are seen throughout Africa. First, each nation has a national coat of arms. Second, each tribe or ethnic group may have a coat of arms or emblem. Third, an individual, usually an African king or chief may possess arms that May Be displayed by all members of the royal or noble family.

National coats of arms exist for each nation in Black Africa and were created shortly after independence from colonialism.

Each tribe or ethnic group may have a coat of arms or emblem that may be displayed by all members of that particular tribe. Tribal associations and clubs for expatriates in Europe and North America will often commission heraldry experts to design arms for tribes that do not currently possess them.

Individuals whose ancestors were dispersed due to the Atlantic slave trade who can prove that they have tribal descent through either the maternal or paternal line may display the arms of their tribe after DNA testing has been conducted.

African kings and tribal chiefs may have individual arms that may be displayed by all members of the royal or noble family.

See also

• South African heraldry