Yennenga was an admirable African princess who lived roughly 900 years ago. She joined her father in battle at the young age of 14. Her combat specialties included javelins, spears, and bows; she was also efficient on horseback and lead her own battalion. When she became of marrying age, her father forbid her to do so, instead casting her into the role of warrior chief. Yennenga was angered at her father for making this decision for her, so she dressed as a man and fled, taking back her life for herself.
She is particularly revered in what is today known as Burkina Faso; here it is believed that she and her sons founded the Moose chieftains, who still hold much of the country's political power.
Yennenga has become a cultural icon in African cultures. There are statues, roads, comic strips and a film named in her honor. Even Burkina Faso's national football team gives praise to her legend ("The Stallions" after her famous horse). Her tale has inspired many African people as she is seen as a symbol for strong women, in both body and mind.
Yennenga has a unique story in that she was given the opportunity to be a great warrior, but she desired a different life for herself. Instead of just accepting what her father told her, she took matters into her own hands and made her own path. While she was an incredible fighter, what really makes her a warrior woman is her sense of self-worth who didn't let anyone control her or stop her from doing what she wanted. By not following her pre-set path, she founded a country that hold women on a different standard than many other places. Because of her, the women of Burkina Faso have someone to look up to and thank for providing them with a better outlook in their society.
Works Cited:
“Princess Yennega From Mossi Ethnic Group of Burkina Faso.” Africani Sankofa, 25 Apr. 2017, rediscoveringafricaheritage.wordpress.com/2017/04/22/princess-yennega-from-mossi-ethnic-group-of-burkina-faso/comment-page-1/.
“Women in African History.” UNESCO, en.unesco.org/womeninafrica/yennega/biography.
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