In many African communities, storytelling is more than just a pastime. It is how wisdom is passed down, the values children learn, and how communities find strength in difficult times. I was recently reminded of this through an old tale at Odu Village.
One night, the villagers were awakened by cries of alarm- “fire, fire at the market square!” Panic spread as the flames increased., threatening to consume the heart of the community. People ran in confusion, trying to quench the fire but it was to no avail and seemed unstoppable.
Then, something incredible happened. Mama Nnena, the village’s oldest storyteller, stepped forward. Instead of screaming instructions to the chaos happening, she began to tell a story, about the tortoise who lost everything because he refused to share.
At first the villagers were surprised as to why the elder was telling a story in the middle of a fire uproar, but as her message sank in, it became clear to the people that survival depended on unity. Suddenly, the chaos turned into teamwork. Buckets of water passed from hand to hand, children carried small bowls, men best down the flames with branches, and women poured sand to contain the fire.
By dawn, the flames were gone and the market was saved, not by strength alone, but by the power of a story that touched every heart and reminded the people of who they were and what they could achieve together.
That day taught the villagers the value of togetherness and oneness, a lesson that will live on. Storytelling isn’t just for entertainment, it links people, inspires action, and keeps the spirit of community alive. Even today, our stories, whether told around a fire, shared online or written in brown papers, have the power to unite and light up our world in ways no fire can destroy us.
Africans believe strongly that our stories are more than folklores, they are living proof of our values that have existed right from our history, our resilience, creativity, and unity. From village squares to global stages, these tales carry timeless lessons that the world needs to hear.
By sharing them, we don’t just preserve our heritage; we show the world our strength, beauty, and wisdom that defines African communities.
Now it’s your turn: what folklore or childhood tale left you with a lesson or value you still carry today? Share it in the comments: we would love to hear the stories that shaped you.
