Vilma Ottonelli Response to Obehi Podcast Episode: Identity and Mask – A Comparison of African and European Cultures
I recently released an episode of the Obehi Podcast (Italian version), titled “Identità e Maschera: Confronto tra Cultura Africana ed Europea | Mohamed BA e Stefano Anselmo”. After editing, the episode ended up being over 3 hours long. You might think, “Who would listen to an episode that long?” But the conversation is so rich and insightful that anyone truly interested in the topic will gladly take the time to listen. This is exactly the approach I’ve taken with the Obehi Podcast, which is why you’ll often see the tagline “Obehi Podcast: In-depth Interviews.”
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Today, I received feedback from someone who had listened to the entire episode: Vilma Ottonelli, a longtime friend from Brescia, Italy. When I saw her message on WhatsApp, I expected a brief comment or perhaps a paragraph-long reflection.
Instead, I was pleasantly surprised to find a full, thoughtful review of her experience after listening to the episode. That’s what I’m sharing with you in this article. Enjoy reading!
The full video (Italian language) Identità e Maschera: Confronto tra Cultura Africana ed Europea | Mohamed BA e Stefano Anselmo
Reflection of Vilma On The Podcast Episode: Identity And Mask
I really enjoyed it. Initially, I thought it would be too long to watch and that I would get bored. But in reality, you were right. There are certain topics that need a lot of time to be fully understood.
I knew about African spirituality, the relationship Africans have with the dead and their ancestors, and a religious and spiritual outlook that is very different from the European one. However, I had never delved into the topic of the relationship between man and the mask.
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Yes, of course, I knew about African masks, but I was unaware of their significance and their importance in the relationship between man and Spirit. Maybe I should watch the video again…
- Do masks still have a religious significance in the life of an African today (in 2025)?
- Are there festivals or ceremonies where masks play an important role?
- The ones we have in our museums hold artistic value for us, but we don’t truly understand their real meaning.
Mohamed also spoke at length about initiation ceremonies, about a sacred forest… but do they still exist? Do they exist in large cities, or have they remained only in more remote villages?
He talked about “a confused and disoriented African” who no longer knows what it means to be African. He spoke about an “Africa that is a history, that has a history” and not just war, misery, and poverty ( how we think in the West) An Africa that needs to recover its identity… an Africa that does not know itself because its story has always been told by the hunters, not the lions.
Listening to Mohamed BA is a great enrichment. When he speaks, it’s like hearing a Griot, sitting by the fire, telling us the stories of our great-grandparents, our great-great-grandparents, and the great-great-grandparents of our great-great-grandparents, starting from the dawn of time.
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I was glad that he mentioned the Carta di Kurugan Fuga—800 years ago, it was far more advanced in terms of human rights, women’s rights, and respect for foreigners—and then, the encounter with the white man caused a historical regression.
And if you allow me, I’d like to share an episode related to the Carta di Kurugan Fuga. When I was still working, I had been assigned the role of tutor for a young man (of Italian nationality, born and raised in Italy) of Ghanaian descent, who was doing an internship with us.
One day, during a break, the conversation turned to human rights. I—scandalizing my colleagues and surprising him—began by saying, “Human rights were born in Africa,” and I recited the most important articles of the Carta di Kurugan Fuga from memory.
My colleague looked at me as if I had blasphemed, and he asked, “Are you sure?”
“Of course, I’m sure. The source is UNESCO.” And he, who was standing next to me, hugged me tightly and visibly moved, said, “THANK YOU, GRANDMA. YOU MADE ME PROUD TO BE AFRICAN.”
Another scandal: why are you allowing such familiarity? With interns, you should use formal language with each other. Don’t you remember the rules?
I also really enjoyed Stefano Anselmo’s contribution… it made me reflect on many things that were right in front of me but that I had never noticed.
Now, with that said by Vilma, what do all these really mean, especially to the Africans in the diaspora? Let’s explore that further.
The Importance Of Exploring African Cultural Heritage
Exploring African heritage and culture is crucial, particularly for those of African descent, as it offers an opportunity to reconnect with a rich and diverse history that has been often overshadowed or misunderstood.
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For many generations, African cultures and histories have been marginalized, misrepresented, or erased, especially during the colonial period. By delving into African traditions, languages, spiritual practices, and philosophies, individuals of African descent can reclaim a sense of pride and identity that was once denied to their ancestors.
Understanding the depth of African heritage not only counters historical misinformation but also strengthens personal and collective identity, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose in a globalized world.
Moreover, exploring African culture is vital for the preservation and continuation of traditions that have contributed significantly to the world’s diversity.
From the complex systems of governance, such as those seen in the Carta di Kurugan Fuga (The Manden Charter in Mali), to the profound spiritual beliefs and practices that honor the connection between the living and the ancestors, African cultures offer valuable lessons in community, respect, and resilience.
For those of African descent, learning about these aspects can deepen their understanding of their own roots, helping them navigate modern challenges while honoring their rich cultural legacy.
Embracing this heritage is a powerful way to bridge the past and the future, fostering cultural pride and unity while encouraging a more inclusive understanding of history.
What is The Manden Charter in Mali?
On the website of UNESCO, you will read about The Manden Charter in Mali which is here summarised for you as follows:
The Manden Charter, conceived in the 13th century within the Malian Empire, is one of the oldest known constitutions in the world. This foundational document laid out the laws for the Malinke clans, emphasizing key principles that continue to shape community life in western Sub-Saharan Africa today.
The Charter advocates for social peace amid diversity, the sanctity of human life, the importance of education, and the protection of the environment. It also stresses human rights, the abolition of slave-raiding, and the promotion of freedom of expression and enterprise.
Inscribed by UNESCO in 2009 as part of the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the Manden Charter remains a critical part of Malinke culture, guiding many aspects of social and legal life in the region.
The Manden Charter is not only a symbol of historical governance but also a living document that continues to promote peaceful conflict resolution and sustainable development.
Its emphasis on human rights, freedom of movement, and the fruits of labor aligns with global efforts such as Sustainable Development Goal 16, which seeks to foster just, peaceful, and inclusive societies.
The Charter’s continued relevance is celebrated annually through ceremonies in Mali, supported by local authorities who recognize its role in promoting peace and fraternity.
However, there are concerns about its transmission to younger generations, particularly as urbanization challenges the oral traditions that have preserved it for centuries. This is also why the reference to it during our podcast episode was particularly satisfying.
Efforts to ensure the Charter’s ongoing relevance and transmission in the modern era remain vital to safeguarding its cultural and legal legacy.
Effective Ways For African Diaspora To Keep Celebrating Their Cultural Heritage
People of African descent living outside of Africa can promote their cultural heritage in their countries of residence through various effective methods that both celebrate and educate others about the richness of African cultures. Here are three such ways:
Cultural Education and Awareness Programs:
One of the most impactful ways to promote African heritage is through education, whether in schools, universities, or community centers like AClasses Academy. African diasporas can organize workshops, seminars, and cultural events that educate both their own communities and the broader public about African history, traditions, art, and spirituality.
These programs can include storytelling, dance, music, food, and discussions on the impact of African civilizations.
For example, in the U.S., the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) has played a pivotal role in educating the public about African American history and African roots. However, we do need more than museums for these in-depth works.
Another example is the work of the African Cultural Alliance of North America (ACANA), which promotes African arts and culture through various cultural exchange programs and events across North America.
Celebrating African Festivals and Holidays:
Africans in the diaspora can bring attention to significant cultural holidays and festivals, such as Kwanzaa in the U.S. or Africa Day globally, which honors African unity and culture.
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These events often feature African music, dance, food, and discussions on current issues impacting African communities worldwide. The success of events like the Afrika Day celebrations or the Jollof Festival in the UK, which celebrates African culinary traditions, shows how African heritage can be promoted through festivals that attract diverse audiences.
The Kwanzaa celebrations, initiated by Dr. Maulana Karenga in the 1960s, continue to be a significant example of promoting African cultural values, emphasizing unity, heritage, and collective responsibility.
Creative Arts and Media Representation:
African diaspora communities can use art, film, music, and literature to highlight their cultural heritage and share their stories with the world. One of the most powerful ways to do this is through representation in global media and entertainment.
Artists like Nigerian filmmaker Nollywood’s Genevieve Nnaji, musicians such as Burna Boy and Wizkid, and writers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie have made significant contributions to showcasing African culture on the global stage.
Through their work, they challenge stereotypes, break cultural barriers, and provide platforms for African voices.
For instance, Burna Boy’s Grammy-winning music and the global success of Adichie’s Americanah novel have led to a greater appreciation of African stories and music, creating a broader understanding of African culture beyond its borders.
By using these methods, people of the African diaspora can foster a stronger sense of identity and appreciation for African heritage, while also educating others and bridging the gap between cultures.
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These efforts not only contribute to the celebration of African culture but also ensure its survival and recognition in a multicultural world.
Conclusion on Response to Obehi Podcast Episode: Identity and Mask
In conclusion, promoting African cultural heritage in countries outside of Africa is a powerful way for people of the African diaspora to preserve and share their rich history with the world.
Through education, cultural celebrations, and creative expression, they can foster pride, unity, and a deeper understanding of African traditions.
As seen through the efforts of individuals and organizations around the globe, these practices not only honor the past but also pave the way for future generations to appreciate and continue the legacy of African culture.
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