For several centuries, West Africa has experienced mental, social, political and spiritual upheavals that have shaped its societies and fuelled the emergence of transformative utopias. Whether it be decolonisation, struggles for cultural emancipation, democratic demands or new economic aspirations, these transformations often find their inspiration in ancestral myths. These stories, which carry values and symbols, serve as catalysts for rethinking society and imagining new horizons.
1. Mental ruptures: emancipation and the reappropriation of identity
Inspiration from founding myths
West African societies have long been shaped by imposed systems of thought (colonialism, globalisation, ‘Western’ ideologies). Today, the reappropriation of traditional cultures and knowledge is an essential mental breakthrough.
Example: the myth of Sundiata Keita (Mali Empire)
Story: Despite his initial handicap, Sundiata became a great king thanks to his resilience and intelligence.
Impact: He inspires young people and pan-Africanist movements in their quest for intellectual and political sovereignty. His story shows that adversity can be overcome and that strength lies in cultural and historical identity.
Concrete effects:
Renaissance of African philosophy with thinkers like Cheikh Anta Diop.
Promotion of African languages in education and literature.
Reappropriation of oral traditions as a tool of cultural resistance.
2. Social breakdowns: rebuilding collective values
Return to communitarian myths and ancestral values
African societies are facing identity crises linked to urbanisation, individualism and globalisation. Myths remind us that the strength of African societies lies in the solidarity and balance between individuals and nature.
Example: the myth of Queen Pokou (Baoulé, Côte d’Ivoire)
Story: Pokou sacrifices her son to save her people.
Impact: This story highlights sacrifice for the common good and the central role of women in governance.
Concrete effects:
Promotion of female leadership in politics and the economy.
Enhancement of the values of solidarity in new forms of participative governance.
Development of community-based economic models (cooperatives, tontines).
3. Political breakthroughs: towards models of governance inspired by tradition
Reappropriation of ancient African political models
West African states are looking for new political models adapted to their realities. Some intellectuals and social movements are taking inspiration from myths and traditional systems to rethink democracy.
Example: the myth of Faro by the Bambara (Mali)
History: Faro, god of water, regulates harmony between man and nature, imposing equitable rules on life.
Impact: He symbolises the idea of a leader who guarantees balance and justice, in contrast to authoritarian models of governance.
Concrete effects:
Rediscovery of the traditional chieftaincy model as a source of inspiration for local governance.
Integration of councils of elders into political decision-making.
Reflection on a more participative democracy, inspired by the African consensus.
4. Breaking with spirituality: towards a redefinition of African spirituality
A break with imposed religions and a return to tradition, or more precisely, a revival of spiritual dynamism in the face of the multiform crisis of these religions of Abrahamic essence.
Islam and Christianity have had a profound influence on West African spirituality, but there is now a renewed interest in traditional religions and philosophies.
Example: the myth of the Nommo among the Dogons (Mali)
History: The Nommo, spiritual beings, teach mankind sacred knowledge.
Impact: It re-emphasises a vision of spirituality rooted in the connection with the universe and nature, different from imported dogmas.
Concrete effects:
Revival of spiritual practices and traditional rites.
Promotion of traditional medicine and ancestral knowledge.
Creation of a new spiritual pan-Africanism, integrating African wisdom with modernity.
Conclusion: towards a transformative utopia?
West African myths are not just stories from the past, but living tools that inspire major changes in today’s society.
They feed into :
A reclaiming of identity in the face of the colonial legacy.
A renewal of community values in the face of growing individualism.
A reform of political systems for greater justice and inclusion.
A return to spiritual roots to rebalance societies.
Isn’t it said in one of our languages that ‘man is man’s medicine’?
By reclaiming their myths, West African societies are not just preserving their past: they are forging a new utopia for transformation, adapted to the challenges of the 21st century.
