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The Yaa-Naa & Dagbon Chieftaincy

The Yaa-Naa is the paramount king of the Dagbon Kingdom, one of the oldest traditional states in West Africa. Enthroned at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, the Yaa-Naa is the spiritual and political head of all Dagbamba.

The founding of Dagbon

Oral history traces Dagbon to Naa Gbewaa, ancestor of the Dagbamba, Mamprusi and Nanumba peoples. His descendants established a chieftaincy structure that has survived for more than seven centuries.

The skins of Dagbon

Chieftaincy in Dagbon is symbolized by skins, not stools. The most powerful "gate" skins — Karaga, Savelugu and Mion— are the traditional stepping stones on the path to becoming Yaa-Naa. Sub-chiefs across Nanton, Tolon, Gushegu, Zabzugu, Tamale and beyond all owe allegiance to the Yendi skin.

Rituals and regalia

A new Yaa-Naa is enthroned in a solemn ceremony inside the Gbewaa Palace. Royal drumming by the Lunsi, richly woven smocks, red fez caps and ceremonial swords all mark the office. Chiefs sit in state during festivals like Dambaand Bugum.

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