The lands of Afriboria known as "the Congo" ((Bangale, Irundi & Uranga) are home to an unknown number of tribes, sharing a common religion and living in huts grouped into villages, reigned by (petty) chieftains. Depending on what area they are in, they can be hunter-gatherers or farmers. All suffer from Arab slave-traders, although most chieftains wouldn't think twice to offer (military) support to Arabs threatening a rival tribe.
Warriors of the Congo, armed with spears and their typical wicker shields. In the middle: Dr. Mark Stevens.
(Foundry 28mm Darkest Africa)

All able men in the Congo posses weapons (spears, shields, bow & arrows) and are skilled in the use of them up to a certain degree. However, every village is constantly protected by a "regular" unit (if we may use this term for tribal warriors), much like the knights serving a feudal lord. These men are skilled men-at-arms and are selected amongst the tallest and most muscular boys during the "Coming of Age" ceremony. Although the weapons of the tribes are similar throughout the whole Congo, each and every élite unit has its distinct uniform and shield, very often highly decorated. These fierce and proud warriors - the backbone of a tribal army - have been studied by Dr. Mark Stevens, the worldwide famous ethnologist. During his - often dangerous - trips in the jungle he documents his reports and articles with as many pictures as possible. This earned him the nickname "Click-Clack" from the natives.

Elite warrior of the Nzambi tribe.
(Old Glory 28 mm Lost Tribes)

Elite warrior of the Orishako tribe.
(Old Glory 28 mm Lost Tribes)

Elite warrior of the Wele tribe.
(Old Glory 28 mm Lost Tribes)

Elite warrior of the Wulbari tribe.
(Old Glory 28 mm Lost Tribes)

Due to their contact with the Arabs, some tribesmen are the proud owners of (obsolete) firemarms.
(Old Glory 28 mm Lost Tribes)

One of Dr Mark Stevens' famous pictures: a ceremonial duel between Wele and Nzambi élite warriors.