5 Filthy Rich Royal Families Across Africa 

Africa is such a vibrant continent with a rich tapestry of cultures and histories. It’s however not just the culture and history that are fascinating, but also the royal families that have emerged with incredible wealth and influence. These families are like living legends, carrying on noble lineages and embodying the grandeur of the past.

These royal dynasties have accumulated fortunes in various captivating ways. Some have tapped into the region’s abundant natural resources, while others have prospered through historical trade or successful business ventures. Now, when we talk about being “filthy rich,” there are a few African royal families that truly stand out.

Let’s dive into the world of these wealthy African royal families together, and the fascinating blend of tradition and wealth they embody.

Royal family of Morocco

The Royal Family of Morocco are definitely one of the most well-known and prosperous royal families in Africa. Led by King Mohammed VI, this family is renowned for its immense wealth and luxurious lifestyle. Upon the demise of his father, King Hassan II, he ascended to the throne as a member of the ‘Alawi dynasty. King Mohammed VI has enacted significant changes in society, politics, territorial planning, and diplomatic influence since his accession.

They have extensive business holdings across several economic sectors in Morocco. The family resides in luxurious palaces, and their assets include luxury cars and yachts, amongst others. They are committed to philanthropy and social development, working towards improving education and healthcare in Morocco. The family’s influence extends beyond the country’s borders, and they play a significant role in regional affairs. Overall, they are one of Africa’s most prosperous and influential royal families.

The Dlamini royal house

The House of Dlamini serves as the royal house of the Kingdom of Eswatini, with Mswati III currently reigning as the head of the house and the Ngwenyama of Eswatini, the family is one of the last remaining absolute monarchies in Africa. King Mswati III and his royal family control a significant portion of the country’s wealth. The Ludzindzini Palace in Lobamba serves as the present official residence of the royal family, while additional royal palaces are designated for the queen consorts.

Due to their enormous wealth, the royal family, including the king, has been embroiled in both domestic and international controversies. Criticism has been directed towards the king and his household due to their extravagant expenditures in a nation grappling with high poverty levels.

The Akinruntan Royal house

Having held prominence in Nigeria, the Akinruntan Royal house led by his Imperial Majesty, Oba Obateru Akinruntan, is known for its wealth and influence. Primarily associated with the Ugbo Kingdom in Ondo State, Nigeria. The family’s wealth is derived from various sources, including oil and gas investments, real estate holdings, and successful business ventures in sectors such as hospitality and transportation.

The traditional ruler and leader of the Akinruntan Royal House, is widely recognized for his significant personal fortune, having been listed among the wealthiest traditional rulers in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. He is the founder of Obat Oil, one of Nigeria’s largest privately-held oil trading companies built to meet the needs of his family and neighbouring community. He also holds a substantial portfolio of prime real estate in London and Nigeria, including the iconic Febson Hotels and Mall in Abuja’s Central Business District.

The Ashanti Royal House

The Ashanti Royal House, also known as the Ashanti Empire or Asante Kingdom, is a prominent royal family in Ghana, specifically within the Ashanti region. The Ashanti people are part of the Akan ethnic group and have a rich history and cultural heritage. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is the King of Ghana’s gold-rich Ashanti kingdom. 

The wealth of the Ashanti Royal House is from the ownership of extensive real estate in Ghana and South Africa as well as a collection of valuable gold crown jewels. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II also  set up Transpomech Ghana, a $12 million (sales) company that provides mining equipment to several large industrial companies in Ghana.

Ooni of Ife royal family house

The Ooni of Ife is a prominent traditional ruler in Nigeria and holds the highest traditional title among the Yoruba people. The current Ooni of Ife, is Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi and has played a significant role in promoting Yoruba culture, unity, and development. The family house is recognized as one of the most wealthy kings in Nigeria and Africa.

The royal house is known for its efforts to foster peace and harmony among different ethnic groups in Nigeria and has initiated various cultural and economic initiatives to uplift the people of Ife and the Yoruba nation.