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TOGUNA
In Ancient Mali, the Dogon people once built a meeting place where elders gathered to settle dispute and discuss important matters.
This is the toguna built by the Dogon people of Mali during the 13th to 15th centuries, also known as the “Wisdom House” or the “Great Shelter.”A toguna (or “Great Shelter”) is a traditional public building built by the Dogon people in Mali. Located in the center of the village, it serves as a meeting place and “courthouse” where village elders and leaders debate community issues and resolve conflicts.
The roof was intentionally built to be extremely low, because if temper rose during an argument, nobody could suddenly jump up in anger.
An ancient architecture that slowed conflict down, forcing leaders to remain seated, calm and continue their discussion peacefully.
Also inside the Toguna, there was no throne, seat or any high table towering above everyone else, everyone that came into the Toguna was equal.
Architectural DesignTogunas feature an open design with a thick, layered roof made of millet stalks, supported by carved wooden posts or stone pillars. The roof is built intentionally low to force visitors and elders to sit rather than stand, which is a design intended to promote calm and prevent violence during heated discussions and debates.
Cultural Significance
The toguna is deeply rooted in Dogon cosmology and social harmony.
- Symbolism: The wooden support posts are frequently carved to represent the first ancestors of Dogon society, with exaggerated features symbolizing fertility and the future of the community.
- Men’s Councils: It serves as a dedicated space for male elders to deliberate on customary law and community affairs.
- Conflict Resolution: The unique low-roof design serves as a brilliant peacekeeping tool. If a debate or discussion becomes heated and an elder attempts to stand up in anger, they will bump their head against the roof, forcing them to remain seated and calm down.
- Hospitality: The space also serves as a shaded resting spot for travelers and is utilized as a general gathering area for discussions, debates and to resolve conflicts.
Is this old fashioned?
Is this a genius way of resolving conflict?
Should we bring this back and incorporate this method in Kmt=Abibiman=Farafina=The Black Land=The Black Community?
Tau Khamisi, Kwabena and 9 others1 Comment-
126,515
Abibisika (Black Gold) Points
Is this old fashioned? – Dabi
Is this a genius way of resolving conflict? – Aane
Should we bring this back and incorporate this method in Kmt=Abibiman=Farafina=The Black Land=The Black Community? – Aane, It’s in place now in communities such as Abibitumi (digitally) and a physical community on Abibiman that’s currently being built.
These are the indigenous institutions that we must return to. The Toguna is called the Mbôngi among the Kôngo people.
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