Where Community Engagement Meets Tradition
Above: Young Members of ATD Fourth World at the Royal Court of Paspanga
Saturday 3 May 2025 has become a milestone in the story of ATD Fourth World’s Youth Dynamic in Burkina Faso. On this day, a dozen young members of ATD Fourth World met with the Naaba, the traditional chief of the Mossi,1 at the royal court of Paspanga in Ouagadougou. Mutual respect, open dialogue, and a rich cultural exchange among participants shaped the visit.
Building a bridge between generations
This initiative marked a step in the Youth Dynamic’s ongoing efforts to develop a stronger understanding of Burkina Faso’s cultural heritage, promote respect for local traditions, and build bridges between generations. It was also an opportunity for young people committed to overcoming poverty and exclusion to discover the important role that traditional chiefdoms play in community life.
The royal court of Paspanga, located in the heart of the Burkinabe capital, is an influential and symbolic place which embodies history, cultural identity, and traditional importance. Entering this imposing space, the young people felt surrounded by the generations that had come before them and were honoured to be received by the Naaba. After receiving a customary welcome, the young people were introduced to the chief. The Naaba, dressed in traditional attire, addressed the group, emphasising the importance of these initiatives in strengthening the fabric of society. He praised their willingness to learn, their commitment to human dignity, and their desire to deepen their understanding of traditional values.
Words of wisdom and practical advice
The highlight of the visit was a discussion between the young people and the Naaba. With words imbued with wisdom, the chief reminded them that:
“those who do not know their roots are like trees without foundations”.
He encouraged the young people to continue practising humility, to foster respect for others, and to always honour the interests of the community above their own personal concerns.
He also gave practical advice to ensure their group runs smoothly: prioritising solidarity, maintaining honest communication between members, and never forgetting the importance of listening. These words, spoken in a mixture of Mooré and French, deeply moved the young people, who expressed their gratitude and their eagerness to put this advice into practice.
One of the most powerful moments of this meeting was undoubtedly the blessing given by the Naaba. In the Moaga tradition, the blessing of a traditional chief is a hugely significant event, conveying spiritual energy and moral support. The Naaba raised his hands and offered the group words of peace, success, and unity, symbolically placing them under his protection and that of their ancestors.
After his speech, several young people shared their perspectives. They asked questions about the role of traditions in modern life, especially the role of chiefdoms in building social cohesion, and how they, as young people, can help preserve cultural values. The Naaba praised their maturity and willingness to listen, emphasising that “when a young person engages in dialogue with a traditional chief, they breathe life into the whole society”.
A new ally for the Youth Dynamic
Since their first meeting, the chief of Paspanga has become a true ally of ATD Fourth World. He has attended every youth event he has been invited to at the One Hundred Trades Courtyard. His presence reinforces the importance of programmes led by young people and strengthens the link between tradition and community involvement.
For several months, the Youth Dynamic has been engaged in an initiative to connect young people to their cultural heritage. In addition to meeting the chief of Paspanga, they regularly organise visits to historical and symbolic sites, including the Manega Museum, which houses the African commemorative stone, a replica of the Trocadéro commemorative stone. They also organise outings to explore the richness of Burkina Faso’s landscape, creating cohesion within the group.
For the young people involved in the Youth Dynamic, this initiative strengthens their shared identity and goals by providing social gatherings and meet-up days that promote connection and open dialogue, as well as opportunities to pass on fundamental values through intergenerational discussions and conversations about morality. These activities encourage exchange between young and older members of society, creating solidarity and a shared commitment to shaping a fairer society that respects its roots.