Ouagadougou: The new Minister of Sports, Youth, and Employment, Annick Lydie Djouma Pikbougoum/Zingu© Ouattara, was officially installed in her position on January 14, 2026, by Ousmane Ouattara, the Minister, Secretary General of the Government. She emphasized that her tenure will focus on continuity and the enhancement of public initiatives.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the official announcement was made through decree no. 2026-0006/PF/PRIM, dated January 12, 2026, which detailed the recent government reshuffle. On behalf of President Ibrahim Traor©, Ousmane Ouattara congratulated Ms. Pikbougoum on her appointment and encouraged her to fully embrace her responsibilities as Minister.

During her installation, Minister Pikbougoum expressed her gratitude for the trust placed in her by President Traor© and the government. She highlighted the importance of building upon the achievements of her predecessor, Annuyirtol¨ Roland Somda, to further develop the Ministry of Sports, Youth, and Employment, and contribute to the progress of Burkina Faso.

Minister Pikbougoum outlined her commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure and supporting athletes, with the goal of making sports and youth central to national development. She also stressed the importance of promoting entrepreneurship and innovation among young people, as well as developing professional integration programs tailored to local needs.

The outgoing minister, Annuyirtol¨ Roland Somda, reflected on his tenure, noting significant progress and a performance contract execution rate of 90.33%. He emphasized that these achievements were made in line with directives and always with the public interest in mind.