The experience of war in our ancestral societies
In this issue of Cultural Identity magazine, we delve into the experience of war in our ancestral societies. We wonder what were the reasons that pushed our ancestors to fight, how they made the decision to go to war, how warriors were prepared, how conflicts were concluded and finally, if there are elements of the art of the war of the ancestors that we can apply in current conflicts to resolve them.
To answer these questions, we invited two experts: Muhindo Wema Kennedy, member of the Nande community of North Kivu, and Dido Makila, member of the Dinga community of Bandundu. Their vision and knowledge will allow us to explore warrior practices within their respective communities.
Muhindo Wema Kennedy will talk to us about the reasons that pushed the Nande community to fight. Would it be for the defense of their land, the protection of their resources or the preservation of their cultural identity? What were the issues that justified the battles in this ancestral society?
Dido Makila, for his part, will enlighten us on the decision-making process to wage war within the Dinga community. How was this collective decision made? Who were the key players in this process? How did they manage to find consensus and mobilize the troops?
We will not be able to understand the experience of war without looking at the preparation of warriors. What were the methods of training and physical and mental preparation used by our ancestors? How was this knowledge passed down from generation to generation?
Of course, it is also important to understand how conflicts were resolved. What were the end of war rituals? Were there mechanisms for reconciliation and reconstruction after the battles? How did our ancestors manage to restore peace in their communities?
Finally, we will question the possible relevance of the art of ancestral warfare in current conflicts. Is it possible to apply certain ancestral tactics and strategies to resolve contemporary wars? What lessons can we learn from past experiences to promote peace and peaceful conflict resolution?
This issue of Cultural Identity will plunge us into the heart of the experience of war in our ancestral societies. Thanks to the knowledge and testimonies of our guests, we hope to open new perspectives and nourish reflection on the way we approach conflicts today.
Soon available in streaming on our site and in your favorite bookstores. Stay tuned for more information!