Examine the importance of leadership to the rise of two of the following: the Mandinka empire under Samori Toure; the Lozi kingdom under Lewanika; the Ndebele kingdom under Mzilikazi and Lobengula; the Asante empire under Osei Tutu; the Nyamwezi under Mirambo; the Hehe state under Mkwawa.

The question requires that candidates consider the interrelationship between the importance of leadership in the rise of any two chosen states/empires. Candidates may offer equal coverage of the two leaders or they may prioritize their evaluation of one over the other. However, both leaders will be a feature of the response. Candidates may refer to personal qualities of the leaders such as good organisation; their ability to control trade and the economy in general; their ability to establish good relationships within their kingdoms and also with neighbouring communities. Other relevant factors that may be addressed would include their political and economic organisation such as the setting up of centralized systems of government and emphasis on trade respectively. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.