Did monarchs rule the west African kingdoms?

Yes, monarchs ruled many of the West African kingdoms, such as the Mali Empire, the Songhai Empire, and the Kingdom of Ghana. These rulers often held significant power, both politically and spiritually, and were seen as intermediaries between the people and the divine. They played crucial roles in trade, diplomacy, and the administration of their realms. The structure of these kingdoms often revolved around a centralized authority, with the monarch at the helm.