Vodoun for Climate Justice and Ecology (Benin 2025/2026)
The Zangbéto deity, the traditional Voodoun guardian of the night and peacemaker, is also called upon to protect the mangrove ecosystems. Local communities have relied on this deity to enforce a strict ban on cutting down mangroves and to forbid any other type of poaching in the area.
« Anyone who tramples on these prohibitions suffers the wrath of the gods. »
Approximately 503 hectares of mangroves are under the protection of the Zangbéto deity.
This environment is one of the richest in biodiversity and contributes to climate resilience by absorbing CO2 and preventing erosion through the stabilization of shorelines.
Ecological role: Aerial roots anchor the tree in the mud, filter the water, protect the shoreline from erosion, and serve as a nursery for many species of fish and crabs. Conservation status: This area is part of the Mono Transboundary Biosphere Reserve (designated by UNESCO)
African indigenous spirituality plays a significant role in local communities as medicine but also in ecological stewardship.
However, globalization is impacting every corner of the world, leading to a gradual replacement of these traditional practices.
While new modern solutions can be life-saving for many, it raises an important question for me : how do we ensure that traditional knowledge does not fade away entirely?
