IttiHaas Chronicle
general

Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation Repatriates 18th-Century 'Kingdom of Bamum' Royal Throne to Cameroon

📅 April 11, 2026 📰 Deutsche Welle
Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation Repatriates 18th-Century 'Kingdom of Bamum' Royal Throne to Cameroon

In a major step for Germany's restitution efforts, the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation has formally returned a sacred royal throne belonging to the Kingdom of Bamum to Cameroon. The artifact, known as the Mandu Yenu, was taken during the colonial era and has been a focal point of restitution requests for decades. The handover ceremony took place in Yaound, attended by royal representatives and cultural ministers.

Heritage experts note that the throne is not merely an artistic masterpiece of wood and beadwork, but a living symbol of the Bamum people's sovereignty. This repatriation follows a series of bilateral agreements between Germany and West African nations to address the legacy of colonial-era acquisitions. The throne will now be housed in the Museum of the Bamum Kings in Foumban, where it will be reintegrated into traditional ceremonies.

Original source: Deutsche Welle