Tim, I don't think this 'stick' has an African origin. As far as I can judge from your pictures, you have a 'MAKILA' that is a Basque walking stick. The Basque people live in part of Spain (near the French border). They never left (or leave) home without it. It can be used as a weapon.
Do you already have it at home ? As soon as you get it, you should try to 'unscrew' the top end (with the leather). This will reveal a spike. The other end of the stick is weighted and can be used as a club.
Typical of a 'Makila' is also the decorated wooden shaft. A design is carved into the wood when it is still on the tree. You could say the wood is 'scarred'.
The only thing that seems to be missing from your piece is the horn finial.
Here are some pics of my Basque walking stick (length : 90 cm, approx. 36 inches).
