Legacy of the Dahomey Warriors - Storytelling Expedition West-Africa
We arrive in the early hours at the historic city of Abomey, once the capital of the Dahomey kingdom. One monument in the city center of Cotonou particularly piqued our interest — the “Amazon” statue, dedicated to the legendary all-female warriors of Dahomey, the Mino.
Our guide, Maya, a knowledgeable local with a deep respect for her heritage, greets us warmly. As we walk towards the statue, she starts telling the history of the Dahomey Amazons. According to the history books, in the 1800s, this group of female warriors protected their kingdom with unparalleled skill and bravery. She parallels these historical figures with the modern portrayal of women warriors in the film The Woman King, where General Nanisca (Viola Davis) trains a new generation to confront foreign threats.
Maya emphasizes that the Mino were not just fighters; they were symbols of strength and equality, challenging the gender norms of their time. The statue, she explains, is a tribute to their legacy, standing tall as a reminder of their courage and the ongoing struggle for gender equality.
As we stand before the statue, Maya points out the detailed carvings, each telling a story of battle, strategy, and unity. Schoolchildren nearby are captivated by another guide’s storytelling, reflecting on the themes Maya shared with us. The Mino’s legacy is being passed down through generations.
During our visit, we met several local women who share their battles for rights and recognition in today’s society. Their stories, diverse yet united by common themes of resilience and empowerment, show that the spirit of the Mino is still very much alive.
While progress has been made, the fight for equality continues worldwide. We hope that the statue and the stories of the Dahomey Amazons will inspire people globally.
As the day ends, we leave Abomey with a deeper understanding of the Mino’s impact, both in their own time and today’s discussions on gender equality. Maya’s narratives and the powerful imagery of the Amazon statue leave us with a lasting impression of the strength and determination inherent in pursuing justice and equality. This experience, shared among us, becomes a part of our collective journey.
