BOGANDÉ, Gnagna — The Day of the African Child was commemorated in Bogandé on Saturday, where children from disadvantaged families received food aid and participated in a football competition finale. The event, originally scheduled for an earlier date, took place in the commune of Bogandé, Gnagna province, and was hosted by the Child and Youth Development Centers (CDEJ) in collaboration with local evangelical churches.
According to Burkina Information Agency, president of the organizing committee, the celebration included speeches, performances, and the distribution of essential food supplies. A total of 60 bags of rice, each weighing 25 kilograms and collectively valued at 720,000 francs, were handed out to support children facing harsh family conditions. This year’s event theme, centered on the “Problem of protecting the rights of the family and the child in a context of security and humanitarian crises,” reflects the ongoing challenges in Burkina Faso.
Mahama Bassirou Zagré, head of the Solidarity department at the Provincial Directorate of Humanitarian Action, National Reconciliation, Gender and Family, emphasized the critical need for increased focus and action to protect children during these turbulent times. Additionally, children’s spokesperson Sonia Yebougou appealed for comprehensive support and heightened consideration for young victims of terrorism.
Pastor Fidel Tindano from the Assemblies of God church noted that the CDEJs currently support 1,300 children in Bogandé, with 1,191 enrolled in educational programs, highlighting the centers’ role in fostering holistic child development. Aldjima Lankoandé, the representative of the High Commissioner of Gnagna, praised the efforts of the NGO Compassion, which has been instrumental in establishing the CDEJs since 2015. He commended the initiative and called for greater involvement from all stakeholders to ensure special protection for children.
The commemorative activities concluded with the final match of a football competition, marking a festive end to the day’s events.