The Kingdom of Luba (1585–1889) which emerged in the marshy grasslands of the Upemba Depression in what is now southern Congo around 1585, initially began as a kingdom. Over time, through a combination of conquests, strategic marriages, and alliances, it expanded its territory and influence, eventually becoming an empire. This growth in territory and power allowed the Luba state to elevate its status from a kingdom to an empire.
The following is a list of the Mulopwe (Emperor) of Luba:
Son of Kongolo.[2] He was a great warrior who extended the Luba kingdom. This caused Kongolo to become jealous and he attempted to have Kalala killed, but failed. Kalala defeated his father Kongolo in war and founded the second Luba empire in c. 1620.[2]
Albert I (Albert Kalonji Ditunga) MulopweLa photo montre l'Empereur Luba Albert Ier lors de son intronisation en tant que Mulopwe du peuple Luba. Debout, en costume et couronné, il est entouré de dignitaires Luba et de fonctionnaires. La noblesse Luba, agenouillée devant lui.Luba Emperor Albert Kalonji during his enthronement as Mulopwe of the Baluba. Wearing a headdress and holding a ax, he is seated on a throne surrounded by a large crowd. This solemn scene illustrates a key moment in Luba culture.
His Imperial Majesty Emperor Albert I:
The first electedLuba Emperor, Albert I, was elected Mulopwe by the Luba nobility and notables in March 1959. In 1960, Albert Kalonji member of the Luba nobility and heir to clan-Chief Edmond Mukanya became President of the Luba State of South-Kasai. A year later, in 1961, the nobility and his government voted to have the autonomous state become a federated monarchy. Albert I then became the first constitutional monarch in Luba history. Albert is also remembered as one of the fathers of the Congolese independence he died in 2015. members of his direct and extended family currently live in the DRC, Belgium and Luxemburg.Mulopwe Albert 1 "Ditunga"
