Memories of land utilization and social cohabitation:A case study of Djerehouye village in Togo

Abstract

The increased interest in memory studies in the 20th century finds its basis especially in the attempt of distinguishing history and collective memory. The concept of collective memory is based on the question of social cohabitation and has a significant function to play in the heterogeneity of our societies. In its various forms, collective memory, such as commemorations, museums, and others, plays an essential role in the memory of groups and peoples. This function has become the subject of many studies and research in the social sciences. The social life in Djerehouye village in Togo is full of memories about land utilization, social cohabition and land conflict. This thesis first shows the memories of Ifè, Hudu, Kabiyè, and Nawda ethnic groups on social cohabitation in Djerehouye village after the settlement of the north people until today. Second it unveils the rationale of the land use right claims by the Ifè, Hudu, Kabiyè, and Nawda ethnic groups on the land in Djerehouye village. Third the research highlights land conflict that is going on in the village and the fourth focuses on effort toward conflict resolution. The findings of the thesis show that the natives and the non-natives cohabite in the same village throughout interpersonal exchanges without major obstacles in Djéréhouyé. Therefore, most of the findings support the theory of collective memory in link with other concepts such as the concept of cultural identity, the concept of social cohabitation, the concept of land utilization, the concept of land conflict and the concept of conflict resolution. Based on the findings of this study, it proposes a guideline to form a collective memory of Djerehouye and some ideas of land conflict resolution mechanisms enhancement and redynimization. The aim of this guide is to promote more good social cohabitation within the village’s communities and preserve social peace.