Almami

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Almami (Also: Almamy, Almani, Almany) is a title of West African Muslim rulers, used especially in the conquest states of the 19th century. It is a contraction of Amir al-Mu'minin (Arabic أمير المؤمنين) usually translated Commander of the Faithful or Prince of the Faithful (a better translation might be Leader of the Believers). In the Arabic world Amir al-Mu'minin is similar to Caliphs and to other independent sovereign Muslim rulers that claim legitimacy from a community of Muslims. It has been claimed as the title of rulers in Muslim countries and empires and is still used for some Muslim leaders.

[edit] Famous holders of the title

• Alpha Ibrahima Sory Maoudho of the Kingdom of Fouta Djallon Fulani state.
• Bokar Biro Barry of the Kingdom of Fouta Djallon Fulani state.
• Rulers of the Mossi state of Liptako.
• Almany Niamody of the Toucouleur vassal state of Kaarta.
• Samori Ture of the Wassoulou Empire.
• Maba Diakhou Bâ almamy of Rip, in the Saloum region, Senegal

[edit] Proper Name

In recent times the word has become a proper name in some areas of West Africa in honor of the historical figures known by the title. Almamy Sylla, Malian independence leader, the footballer Almamy Schuman Bah and Senegalese musician and composer Malal Almamy Tall (stage name Foumalade) are examples.

[edit] References

• B. A. Ogot(ed). Africa from the Sixteenth to the Eighteenth Century. UNESCO General History of Africa (1999) ISBN 0852550952
  

"almamy: (title In Bundu, Futa Jallon, Futa Toro and the Sokoto caliphate): a Fulfulde version of the title imam.

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