[Learn from nature & ancestral wisdom] Wisdom & power: A Mossi princess on tradition, energy, and Africa’s sustainable future

What if the path to a sustainable future was illuminated by ancestral wisdom and cultural leadership?

Theme: Learn from nature & ancestral wisdom

Topic: Climate justice and equity

Language: English

In this episode, HRH Princess Abze Djigma of Burkina Faso shares how traditional leadership and modern climate action can work hand in hand to build a more just and regenerative world. From her heritage as a Mossi Princess to her role as Ambassador for Renewable Energy, she explores how community empowerment, energy access, and inclusive governance can transform Africa’s sustainable development landscape.

You’ll learn:

• How ancestral wisdom can guide modern approaches to climate and energy justice

• The importance of bridging traditional governance with global leadership

• Why community-led solutions are key to achieving true sustainability and equity

Key Quotes:

“Every child is an ancestor. I'm taking care of you as an ancestor until your tooth grows, and you will take care of me until I lose my teeth.”“The business case here is our well-being–what do we want? What are our dreams?”

Guest Bio:

H.R.H. Dr h.c. Princess Abze Djigma, H.R.H. Princess Abze Djigma Foundation

H.R.H. Princess Abze Djigma is a Mossi traditional leader from Burkina Faso and Ambassador for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency. She champions access to sustainable energy and climate justice across Africa through traditional leadership and international diplomacy. A powerful advocate for women, youth, and inclusive governance, she bridges ancestral wisdom with global climate action.

Host Bio: 

Atiqah Fairuz Salleh, Researcher and Advisor, UNU-FLORES

Atiqah is a sustainability researcher and advisor for Strategic Initiatives at UNU-FLORES, working at the intersection of climate justice, urban food systems, and social acceptance. She bridges science, storytelling, and community action to support inclusive and regenerative urban transitions. Currently based in Dresden, she is a VOCA fellow amplifying underrepresented voices in climate narratives.