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Mulambwa Santulu | |
|---|---|
| Title | King of Barotseland |
| Predecessor | Mwananyanda Liwale |
| Successor | Silumelume |
| Children | Mubukwanu Silumelume more sons and several daughters |
| Parent(s) | Mwanawina I Mbuywana |
Mulambwa Santulu (born Maimbolwa Santulu) was the 10th litunga (king) of Barotseland who ruled from 1780 to 1830.[citation needed]. He is famous for introducing a series of reforms such as a new constitution into the Lozi Kingdom. He has been called "Mulambwa Mutomi Wa Mulao" which translates to "Mulambwa the creator of laws."[citation needed]
During this period, the practice of slave trading affiliated with both Arab and Portuguese markets was gradually expanding from the coastal regions into the African interior. The name 'Mulambwa' was acquired as a nickname based on his tough stance against slave trading. It is derived from the phrase "Muule ambwa, Muulese kuule Anu" which translates to "buy dogs, but not another human being." Barotseland was made a no-go area for slave traders.
His reign is also characterised by the arrival of the Mbunda tribe into Barotseland, who had fled Angola as refugees escaping slave trading. They were welcomed to resettle into his kingdom and would become strong allies.