Tindana (Plural Tindamba/Tindaanima) is a title for historical rulers of the Dagbon and many other related peoples of West Africa. [1] The tindaanima ruled over these lands before the centralisation of the states by Naa Gbewaa and his descendants. [2] Their historical roles had been religious and spiritual, although this has been changing, with Tindaanima like the Tamale Dakpema, actively engaged in traditional political rulership. [3] The Tindaanima are not appointed by the Yaa Naa, although they are under his authority. [4]
Tindana is derived from the Dagbanli words: Tiŋ/Ting (Land/Town/City) and Dana (Lord/Owner). [5] [4]