Ecofeminism in African Storytelling: A Retelling of Queen Nzinga


In the face of ecological collapse and gendered injustice, one wonders how might storytelling help us reimagine resistance? We see this in legends of the past.

We return to the soil, to Queen Nzinga, the 17th-century ruler of Ndongo and Matamba (present-day Angola), who defied Portuguese colonization with diplomacy, strategy, and unwavering courage.

Nzinga was a political icon and a guardian of the land itself?

In this imagined version of her legend, Nzinga sees the Earth and women suffering together; forests stripped bare, rivers poisoned and mothers walking miles for firewood. Recognising this pain, she plants a sacred ring of native trees and declares:

“Only those who ask permission from the Earth may pass.”

When invaders attempt to conquer the land, the trees rise. Roots entangle their weapons; winds push them back. The forest listens because Nzinga listened first.

In her reign, women lead, rivers return, the soil breathes again.

Nzinga's story is both historical and reimagined. It reflects core ecofeminist truths:

1.      The health of the planet is deeply linked to the wellbeing of women and marginalized communities.

2.      Resistance can take the form of regeneration, not just rebellion.

3.      Storytelling remains a vital tool for collective reimagination and climate action.

If we told more stories like this, how might leadership, sustainability, and justice evolve?

#EcofemTales #Nzinga #AfricanLeadership #Sustainability #ClimateJustice #StorytellingMatters 





Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

From Waste to Wealth: Inspiring a Greener Tomorrow

Image
I am Favour Ojieh, a chemical scientist and the founder of VOCA (Voice of Climate Action). Growing up in Obiaruku, Delta State, Nigeria, surrounded by lush green landscapes and natural beauty, I developed an innate love for the environment. However, it wasn’t until my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year in Bayelsa, where I was assigned to the Ministry of Environment, that this love transformed into purpose. I vividly remember the day a devastating flood swept through my apartment. It was a wake-up call that underscored the vulnerability of our communities to environmental challenges. My director, Mr. Ere Wakedei, introduced me to environmental meetings, including one with Terra Global. These experiences opened my eyes to the urgent need for climate action, especially at the grassroots level. Fueled by passion and a desire to create change, I embarked on a journey to find solutions. My research into recycling began with a simple yet impactful idea: addressing plastic waste. I envis...
Read more

Jolie Mukiza’s Fight for Rwanda’s Green Future

Image
  In the heart of Rwanda, where mist-covered mountains kiss the skies and rolling hills stretch endlessly, a quiet revolution is taking place. This revolution is not led by politicians or corporations, but by women like Jolie Mukiza, visionaries who see conservation as more than just preserving nature, but as an act of empowerment, justice, and survival. Jolie Mukiza, a dedicated environmentalist, a conservation guide and ecofeminist, has become a beacon of hope for communities in Rwanda. Her work in conservation extends beyond the protection of forests, wildlife, and water bodies; it intertwines with the rights and voices of women who have long been stewards of the land yet sidelined in decision-making processes. Through grassroots activism, education, and sustainable practices, she is reshaping the narrative, one tree, one river, and one empowered woman at a time. Jolie, has dedicated the past thirteen years of her life to preserving the environment.  She says "We need m...
Read more

Happy International Day of Forests!

Image
Forests are often called the lungs of the Earth, and for a good reason. They are more than just trees; they are lifelines for our planet. These rich ecosystems purify our air, protect our water sources, provide homes for countless species, and even nurture our mental and physical well-being. Yet, despite their immense value, forests face constant threats from deforestation, climate change, and unsustainable land use. Why Forests Matter Air and Climate Regulation Forests play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They help regulate the Earth's climate by mitigating the impacts of greenhouse gas emissions. Without them, the effects of climate change would be even more severe. Water Security Forests act as natural water filters, preventing soil erosion and ensuring clean water flows into rivers and lakes. They also help maintain groundwater levels, which are essential for agriculture and drinking water supplies. Biodiversity Hotspots Home to 80% of terrestri...
Read more