Lunda

Lunda was a confederation of states centred in Katanga, extending into what are now Angola and Zambia. Its rulers bore the title Mwata Yamvo and held court at a royal centre called the musumba, protected by a moat and earthen walls.

Lunda traditions recount the marriage of the Luba prince Ilunga Tshibinda to the royal woman Lueji. Nawej, who began to rule around 1695, is the first well-attested historical ruler; traditions credit him with creating the office of queen mother to help determine succession.