Songhai's Royal Court: The Koyam and the Art of Governance

In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the inner workings of the Songhai Empire's royal court under Askia Muhammad and his successors. They focus on the Koyam, the high-ranking counselors who advised the emperor on matters of state, justice, and war. Drawing from the Tarikh al-Sudan and the writings of Leo Africanus, the conversation reveals how the Koyam wielded immense influence, often shaping imperial policy. Lucas explains the rigorous selection process and the loyalty tests these officials underwent, and describes their role in administering the vast empire's provinces. The episode also touches on the rivalry between the Koyam and the Tyeddo, the warrior class, and how this dynamic played out during the reigns of Askia Dawud and the later Askias. A fascinating look at the political machinery behind the throne. #Songhai #Koyam #AskiaMuhammad #TarikhAlSudan #LeoAfricanus #WestAfrica #RoyalCourt #Governance #NigerRiver #Gao #Timbuktu #Tyeddo #AskiaDawud #History #FexingoHistory #AfricanHistory #Empire #Sahel Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo